The verses in Deuteronomy 28:1-15 outline the blessings and good things that will happen when you obey God’s commandments. Verses 16-68 outline the curses that will come by not obeying God’s commandments. Wouldn’t it be nice if it just stopped after verse 15? Who wants to be reminded of consequences when we mess up? Shouldn’t it be enough to know what we gain from obedience and not be threatened with curses? Thinking about these questions reminded me of parenting. Most children know the rules and expectations their parents have for them. They know things are more peaceful when they follow the rules, and they get rewards from their parents. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always lead them to make the right choices. There are times parents have to outline, review, or enforce consequences in order to avoid the undesired behavior that comes from disobedience. God seemed to predict that our human nature wouldn’t always be driven by the blessings of obedience. On the inside we are good and want the blessings and peace that comes from obedience. But God knew there would be times that the idea and reminder of consequences would be what leads us to choose obedience, much like parents and children. You can survive the storms of disobedience and the consequences that come. However, would’t it be much more peaceful and smooth if we worked harder to thrive through obedience? The good news is no matter which one we choose, God is waiting with the blessings when we honor him by following His commandments!
Nae's Notes 