Is the Law Good?

There is life and joy in God’s commands

Today's Through the Bible Reading: Exodus 22-24

Abbreviated Reading: Exodus 22:21-23:13; 23:20-26

“…they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient.” Exodus 24:7

These several chapters in Exodus hold powerful insights into God’s character. He called His people Israel to live and conduct themselves in a way that reflected the one true God – the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The high and holy standard of His law reveals those things that He esteems as true, just, and right.

Our Lord is unchanging. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. As New Testament Christians, these chapters in Exodus are vital so that we might know God and not just know about God. I encourage you to take your time in these chapters and not to skim over the law, for in it we find God’s standards, which give us insight into His nature and character, as well as a lot of practical advice for life.

For example, in today’s reading we find instruction and wisdom for a plethora of life situations. God instructs us regarding everything from the legal system (Ex. 22:9, 23:3) and fair business practices (Ex. 22:25) to immigration (Ex. 23:9) and personal morality (Ex. 22:16).

God’s ways are good ways. They bring peace and prosperity. God warns us “Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong” (Ex. 23:2 NIV), but worship the Lord your God, and His blessings will be on you (Ex. 23:25).

Just as God laid out His standard for Israel and then instructed Moses to apply the blood of the covenant as a seal (Ex. 24:8) – so too, He instructs us to follow His ways, to walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh (Gal. 5:16-18) and to apply His blood that cleanses us from ALL unrighteousness – this is His seal on our life (1 John 1:7).

His commands are good. In His law, we find life, joy, and peace when covered in His blood.

“For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous.” 1 John 5:3