“You shall be careful therefore to do as the Lord your God has commanded you. You shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. You shall walk in all the way that the Lord your God has commanded you, that you may live, and that it may go well with you, and that you may live long in the land that you shall possess.”

Statements with such clarity are sprinkled throughout the book of Deuteronomy. It should come as no surprise that it is the most quoted Old Testament book by Jesus throughout the Gospels. The prefix “deuto” means “second,” and the suffix “onomy” means “law,” so this is the second time the Law is given to the people of God. The earlier pronouncement (Exodus 20) had been given to an earlier generation, none of whom, because of disobedience, would have the opportunity to enter the Promised Land. But this is the next generation, encamped in northern Moab, just east of the Jordan river, ready to cross over into their land, promised by their God on the condition of faith.

Upon issuing the worshipful and socially practical principles of godly living that would govern the new nation, Moses concludes with some thoughts that readily describe the quality and character of obedience expected by God, so that the people “may live long in the land that you shall possess.” First, there is a call for carefulness in obeying the commands of God. This is not merely a suggestion but a necessity for living a life pleasing to God. They must trust that His ways will bring blessings for them.

Second, the instruction to not turn to either the “right” or to the “left” indicates a sense of steadfastness in our walk with God. Obedience mandates aligning ourselves with God’s will and His Word, and to do otherwise can cause distraction and eventual disobedience. With so many objects of distraction today set before us, it is easy to stray from the path God has placed before us. Yet, He continues to call us to keep our eyes and mind focused on that which leads to Him. It is an act of faith to choose obedience to His Word over societal trends or personal inclinations.

Third, Israel is to “walk in all the way that the Lord your God has commanded you.” This walk is more than just following rules; this is a life marked by service, dedication, and humility — a life emulating the life of Jesus. By immersing ourselves in the Scriptures, we allow His words and actions to take root in our hearts, and eventually our life begins to model His for the twenty-first century world.

Mark Twain tells the short story of a New England businessman, known for his rude and ruthless behavior. The man once shared with Twain, “Before I die, I want to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. I would like to stand on Mount Sinai and read the Ten Commandments aloud.” With that, Twain replied, “I have a better idea. You could stay in Boston and keep them.”

There is a cumulative effect to a faith-filled, careful, steadfast walk with God—life not only goes well with us, but it will also be long enough to benefit the generations to come. We lose nothing and gain everything by obediently living a life that leaves a legacy for those that come after us. This is the promise of God!

By Dr. Bill Niblette, Bible League International contributor, Pennsylvania U.S.