ENTOLE
And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us. The one who keeps God's commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit, he gave us.
1 John 3:23-24 (NIV)
As a parent of a one-year-old, I instruct my daughter daily on what's right and wrong. She'd walk straight into the street or tumble down the deck stairs if given the chance. I stay close by, guiding her with, Step here or Grab this and daily I say, Follow me.
When Jesus called Matthew, He said, "Follow me." In Matthew 7:13, Jesus says, "Enter through the narrow gate." In both instances, Jesus speaks with authority, not suggestion. Scripture is clear: following Jesus leads to life, while following the world leads to destruction. Many people struggle with the word command because authority can feel uncomfortable. The Greek word for command is entole, which also means instruction or order--much like the guidance a child needs while learning to navigate the world.
We see this with the Israelites in the wilderness. Though the desert may have seemed like wandering, God was preparing and instructing them for the Promised Land. The Ten Commandments were given to bring peace, order and hearts aligned with Him. Psalm 119:35 says, Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Even in hardship, the psalmist found joy in obeying God because His commands lead to life.
Like toddlers and the Israelites, we are prone to wander, follow the crowd, and chase the idols of this world. But it's never too late to turn back, follow Jesus, obey His commands, and reflect the faithful image of God.
APPLICATION: We should delight in God's commands because, like a loving parent, Jesus guides our steps toward peace, purpose and eternal life. Reflect on one of His commands--whether from the Ten Commandments or His simple invitation: Follow me.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, what a joy it is that You lovingly guide us through Your commands and scripture. Thank You for leading us to what's good. May Your Word be a lamp to our feet and guide our pathway to living more like You. I love You. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?