The importance of following God’s word

"Surely I have taught you statutes and judgments, just as the LORD my God commanded me, that you should act according to them in the land which you go to possess. Therefore be careful to observe them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes, and say, 'Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.' - Deuteronomy 4v5-6

There are a lot of reasons to obey God’s word. Not the least of these is for our own welfare. God loves us, knows what is best for us, and teaches us how to live to enjoy all His benefits.

But there are other reasons. Here God tells Israel one of the key reasons that His people must obey His word and keep His ways.

Moses said, ‘I have taught you what God taught me regarding how you should act in the land. Observe theses things carefully, this is your wisdom and your understanding.’

That is great, we know that, but what follows tells us why it is so important - ‘That the people who will hear these statutes will say “surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.”’

Part of the reason we are to obey God’s word is our testimony. The only way that people are going to know that our faith is real is if our lives back up what we say. Only then will they see the source of our wisdom and understanding.

Joseph did this in the prison. Daniel and the others did this – the people were amazed at their wisdom and vigour. The early disciples did this in Acts and they ‘turned the world upside down’ because no one could argue that they ‘had been with Jesus.’

What do our lives say about us? Do people know that are a ‘wise and understanding people’ as we follow God’s word?