When someone uses the word “strict,” what comes to mind?

Maybe you think about a “strict” parent—someone who has lots of rules and doesn’t want their kids to have any fun. Some people think about God like this as well. 

But this simply isn’t true. 

Let me highlight one of the uses of the word “strict” in the Bible. In this passage from Deuteronomy 15:4-5 the people are told to be strict about something. This is what it says: “there will be no poor among you; for the LORD will bless you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you for an inheritance to possess—if only you will strictly obey the voice of the LORD your God, being careful to do all this commandment that I command you today.”

Did you catch it? If the people are strict about God’s instructions to do with the Sabbatical year, God will bless them and there will be no poor among them! 

Here’s one of the reasons why I think this is significant. Following God’s commands isn’t just about doctrine and rules. These are definitely important. In fact, they are eternally important. But carefully following God’s commands also blesses others. Since God specifically instructs us about caring for neighbours, showing forgiveness, and helping the poor, being strict about listening to his voice spreads more grace and love, not less!

Do you trust what the Bible teaches about God?—about how he is good, holy, wise, loving and true? If so, listen to his voice and follow his paths. It’s not just about thinking in a certain way, but about living in a certain way too. 

This will bless you, your family and friends, your community, the disadvantaged, and the whole world.

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Notes:

-Bible quotes are from the ESV.