Why Do We Obey?

God provides reasons to obey His laws. Most obvious? To avoid punishment. Consider:

1. If a man commits adultery with a woman—death penalty. Lev. 20:10.
2. If anyone sleeps with a close relative—death penalty. Lev.20:11-12.
3. If a man sleeps with a man—death. Lev.20:13.
4. If a man marries a woman and her mother—death to all by fire. Lev.20:14
5. If a man sleeps with an animal—death to both. Lev.20:15.
6. If a man marries his half-sister—banishment. Lev.20:17.
7. If a man sleeps with a menstruating woman—banishment. Lev. 20:18.
8. If a man sleeps with his aunt—barrenness. Lev.20:20.
9. If a man marries his brother’s wife—barrenness. Lev.20:21.

These punishments are SEVERE and are a warning that God takes them seriously. He knows we need the fear of consequences. When we are tempted, sometimes only the fear of horrible consequences can stop us. But as we grow in Christ, a more important motive should begin to motivate us—God’s holiness, and our love for our holy, loving, saving God. It begins at Leviticus 19:2:

“Be holy because I, Yahweh your God, am holy.”

He repeats this reason over and over. No idols—I am Yahweh. Be compassionate—I am Yahweh. Be honest—I am Yahweh. Do not gossip—I am Yahweh. No revenge—I am Yahweh. Do not gash or tattoo yourselves—I am Yahweh. Observe the Sabbath—I am Yahweh. Honor the elderly—I am Yahweh. Be kind to foreigners—I am Yahweh.

Twenty-two times this phrase is repeated.

“You are to keep my commands and do them; I am Yahweh.” Lev. 20:22-23.

Obey God because you fear the consequences—we reap what we sow. If you plant sin, problems will grow in your life. But may God help us begin to obey Him because we love Him and He is holy. Ask Him to help you want to obey Him.

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