"And if any part of their carcass falls upon any seed grain that is to be sown, it is clean, (but if water is put on the seed and any part of their carcass falls on it, it is unclean to you."

The laws of God are strict and strenuous. He tells us how to live, and gets in our business, defining clean and unclean.

These laws bring us to Christ, and the grace of God. They tell us what's holy, so we enjoy God's fellowship. Adam lost peace with God. Christ restores it.

Walking in God's law is best for us. He tells us to love him by faith in Christ - to give him the glory. Ephesians 3:21, "to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever." This involves seeing his face in redemption, and partaking of mercy. He also tells us to love each other. May we do these things zealously with our life, for our own benefit: for our good. Deuteronomy 10:13," Keep the Lord’s commands and statutes I am giving you today, for your own good."

Don't think, "He's meddling with me, and tedious." He's given us rules for ourselves.

Yesterday, I attended a baby shower for a man. Different young men in the church, and a few older, gathered to encourage him in the gospel. Everyone spoke something from Scripture. I marveled that this young man is getting practical godly advice on HOW TO LIVE.

This is for his benefit. I told him that I didn't have… or didn't listen to… counsel about zeal of holiness, and cleaning up every area of life. Formerly, we focused on God's sovereignty, forgiveness, and preaching. Zeal to obey was not emphasized. The result? Many areas of my life were weak and sinful. Years that could have been more prosperous to the kingdom and full of joy were wasted. I learned the hard way.

It may be tough, but it's better to obey than preach substitution - the Just for the unjust. It's better to use the Lamb's blood to overcome sin, than to excuse it.

Stay near to God's heart, and whatever he wants, do it. John 2:5 “Do whatever He tells you,' His mother told the servants." Look out for what's best for you, which is obedience.