READ: Deut. 6:1-9
You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your strength. And these words … shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children … You shall bind them as a sign on your hand… – Deut. 6:5-9
Moses has progressed further in his covenantal teaching. Chapters 4 and 5 dealt with the closing of God’s covenant on Horeb and the covenantal words. He now delves into the deeper meaning of these words, which concern our life with God. This must involve fearing Him by keeping His commandments (v.2). For that, a listening attitude is required with a lot of attention. But how do you then deal with God’s will? Verse 3 says: Listen and keep the commandments carefully. That also means that we must perform them meticulously.
This is not only something from the Old Testament. Even the Lord Jesus says: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” In our time it is often said that, with Jesus, love has replaced the commandments. But that is not true. Real love was also asked of the Israelites: see verse 6, quoted in Matt. 22:37.
True love in the Bible is love with all your heart and soul, but also with all your strength: a heartfelt love with deeds. In the covenantal relationship with God, this is an act that corresponds to His Word. However, this love for God is exclusive: God is one (vs. 4). He is the Only One and does not tolerate love for other (false) gods or idols.
It is then important to know and apply God’s will. God’s commandments cover your entire life and all situations. This requires ongoing commitment and faithfulness. There is also a responsibility towards your children and grandchildren: you must impress God’s words upon them! Parents, remember your baptismal promise!
What does it mean to write God’s commandments on your doorposts?
Singing Ps. 78:2