How can I keep all ten commandments?
Keeping all Ten Commandments is a goal many strive for as part of their Christian faith, recognizing that they reflect God’s will and design for how we should live. The Commandments are not just rules but a moral foundation given to us to shape a life of righteousness and strong relationship with God and others.
The truth is, as humans, we all fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23), and the Ten Commandments show us the standard which is impossible to keep perfectly due to our sinful nature. However, this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t strive to live by them; it means we need God’s grace and help. Here are some ways you might approach keeping the Commandments:
1. **Seek God’s Help**: Begin with prayer, asking God to help you understand and keep His Commandments. The Holy Spirit can guide you in living a life pleasing to God.
2. **Immerse Yourself in Scripture**: Regularly reading the Bible can equip you with the knowledge and wisdom to live righteously. The Commandments are found in Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21, but the whole of Scripture helps to illuminate their purpose and application.
3. **Understand the Spirit of the Law**: Jesus emphasized understanding the spirit behind the law, not just the letter. For example, anger can be seen as a form of murder, and lust as a form of adultery (Matthew 5:21-28). It’s important to address the heart issues, not just the actions.
4. **Receive Grace and Forgiveness**: When you fail, remember that God’s grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9), and through Christ’s sacrifice, we have forgiveness. Use these moments of failure as opportunities to grow and lean closer to God.
5. **Cultivate a Relationship with Jesus**: John 14:15 says, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Love for Jesus strengthens our desire and ability to obey.
6. **Reflect and Repent**: Regular self-examination and repentance can be valuable. Acknowledge when you’ve fallen short and turn back to God for forgiveness and strength.
7. **Live in Community**: Engage with a community of believers who can support and encourage you, hold you accountable, and walk alongside you in your journey of faith.
8. **Focus on Love**: Jesus summed up the law as loving God and loving others (Matthew 22:37-40). Love should be the guiding principle in all your actions.
Remember, keeping the Ten Commandments isn’t about earning salvation. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, and good works flow from our gratitude for His grace and our love for God. Living by the Commandments is a response to God’s love, not a way to earn His love. As you grow in faith, trust that God will continue to transform your heart and guide you to live in a way that honors Him.
