Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. — Joshua 1:8
Just as God reminded Joshua in today’s verse, we need to be reminded that God gave his Law to be a blessing to his people. God gave Israel the Law to help his people live for him and display his will for them daily. He promised he would bless them if they would live God’s way. God is their Creator who loves them. He knows the best way for people to live in harmony with the principles of his universe and the requirements of God’s Law. This Law was not intended to hinder or interfere with their happiness. Instead, it was given to help them prosper and succeed. In his letter to the Galatians, Paul repeatedly reminded believers that we are no longer under law. But, as we live by the Spirit, the character that is produced reflects the character of Jesus, who fulfilled the Law (Matthew 5:17-20) and brought us the blessings God has intended for us all along. Bottom line: Following God’s will and living his character is a blessing! So, with the Holy Spirit’s help, let’s follow Jesus’ example, obey his words, and demonstrate his will in how we treat others! By so doing, we fulfill the righteous requirements of the Law, but we are motivated by God’s grace and empowered by the Holy Spirit!