Purpose and Peace
Read This Week: Exodus 20
And God spoke all these words: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. “You shall have no other gods before me. “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them. – Exodus 20:1-4 NIV
Exodus 20 is one of the most referenced passages in the Bible, as it introduces the Ten Commandments. These commandments are often seen as ancient laws, but they are still relevant to today’s world. They offer principles for building a life of faith in God, integrity, accountability, and purpose. It is always a good practice to look at these commandments to understand how they apply practically to our modern lives.
The chapter begins with God speaking to the Israelites, who were still fresh off their deliverance from Egypt and on their journey to freedom. But this section of Scripture doesn’t just list moral guidelines; it sets a foundation for the relationship between God and all of humankind. The commandments are not merely rules, as some would assert; they are a covenant — a sacred agreement that establishes trust and accountability. When viewed this way, the commandments become more than an outdated code of conduct; they’re principles for fostering spiritual respect, trust, and integrity in our interactions with God and each other.
Each commandment can serve as a moral compass in our daily decision-making. Here’s a look at each one, with some insights on how it can guide us:
You shall have no other gods before Me. This commandment is about prioritizing what truly matters. In today’s world, “other gods” can mean anything we allow to take priority over our core values or beliefs. It could be work, social media, money, or approval from others. Reflect on where your time and energy go and ensure that your life’s purpose aligns with what you truly value.
You shall not make for yourself a carved image. This commandment encourages us to avoid idolizing material things. It’s easy to become attached to possessions or superficial success. Focus on building a purpose-based life rather than letting external objects define your self-worth.
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. This one goes beyond speech and includes living in a way that respects the divine. It’s about aligning our actions with integrity, respecting what’s sacred, and living authentically without misusing trust or authority.
Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Rest is essential for productivity, creativity, and health. Taking time to disconnect from daily pressures allows you to recharge and gain perspective. Make time for rest, reflection, and connection, whether one day a week or intentional moments throughout our schedule, like the day we gather to worship the Lord.
Honor your father and your mother. This is about respect for those who have nurtured and guided us. Honoring parents, or other mentors, can be challenging, especially when relationships are strained. But this commandment urges us to value those relationships and practice gratitude, even if it’s through small acts of kindness and understanding.
You shall not murder. While this might seem straightforward, it extends beyond physical harm. We can harm others through words, actions, or even neglect. This commandment calls for a commitment to protecting life in every form, including nurturing positive interactions and promoting peace.
You shall not commit adultery. Faithfulness is foundational for trust in any relationship. This commandment emphasizes the importance of loyalty, not only in marriage but in all relationships. Being honest, dependable, and honoring commitments strengthens bonds and fosters genuine connections.
You shall not steal. This encourages us to respect others’ rights and boundaries. Beyond taking physical things, stealing can include misusing someone’s time, ideas, or trust. Practicing fairness and integrity in all interactions reflects our respect for others.
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. Truth is vital for trust. Misrepresenting others, gossiping, or lying can damage reputations and relationships. This commandment encourages honesty and compassion in our conversations, urging us to see the best in people and communicate in ways that build trust.
You shall not covet. This commandment speaks to the root of jealousy, comparison, and dissatisfaction. Coveting often leads to negative feelings and actions. Cultivating gratitude and contentment can help combat envy, allowing us to celebrate others’ successes without feeling threatened.
The Ten Commandments are timeless because they speak to universal human needs: the intrinsic need for God, the desire to be loved, respected, and live in harmony with others. The commandments encourage self-respect and respect for others, which are fundamental to healthy relationships. They promote honesty and discourage behaviors that undermine trust. Living with integrity helps us build relationships rooted in authenticity. The commandments discourage covetousness and greed, urging us to find satisfaction and peace within ourselves and our lives. By focusing on our higher purpose — whether through an intimate relationship with Christ, personal growth, or serving others — we stay grounded and less susceptible to distractions.
Living by the Ten Commandments under the grace of God through the cross doesn’t mean we won’t face challenges. However, using them as a moral and ethical framework provides us with tools to navigate life’s complexities. They can be a blueprint for a life of purpose and peace.
The Ten Commandments remind us that ethical living isn’t about restriction but freedom. We build a life rooted in integrity and fulfillment by respecting ourselves and others. Whether or not one approaches these commandments from a religious perspective, their wisdom is practical and universal. They invite us to live mindfully, value relationships, and strive for a life of meaning that transcends time and culture.
Exodus Chapter 20 Verse 24
An altar of Earth you shall make to Me and sacrifice on it, your burnt offerings and your peace offerings, your sheep and your oxen. In every place where I record My name and cause it to be remembered. I will come to you and bless you.
Exodus Chapter 20 Verse 25
And if you will make Me an altar of stone, you shall not build it of hewn stone, for if you lift up a tool upon it, you have polluted it.
Exodus Chapter 20 Verse 26
Neither shall you go up by steps to My altar, that your nakedness be not exposed upon it.
~The Power Of Sacrifice~
God Is Saying To Me:
I am the Holy One! I separate you from the immoralities of the world. I have called you for Holiness. You are not to participate in things that corrupt you and my great creation. So strive to live as you were created in my image. Through obedience do not conform to prior ignorances but rather in total Holiness like Me. “You shall be Holy, for I am Holy!” (1st Peter 1:14-16) As you grow with Me, strive to be like Me. Get rid of the things that do not honor or represent Me. Do not desire to want to do things that I would not do!
What This Means To Me:
1. Do not be afraid of God! But rather, I speak to you with authority and have Grace and mercy for your soul.
2. I speak to you with My voice. Be obedient and follow me. Make an altar in your heart and come to Me with all things. The Israelites made sacrifices and atonement at the altar. You make atonement for your sin through the Holy Spirit.
3. By sacrificing, I knew you would sin so I have given you a way out. I am your spirit and those that worship me must worship in spirit and truth. Worship by the Holy Spirit and leave all deception and emotions aside because I am Holy and so are you! ❤️
Did you know that God desires to bless you abundantly? His loving kindness is extended to you, inviting you to draw near, not pull away. Don’t be afraid; dive in and get close to Him.
Many people, even some who profess to be Christians, hesitate to truly draw close to God. They may fear giving up what they have, struggle to trust God with the direction of their lives, or resist listening and following Him fully. Often, they find it easier to remain where they are, holding on to what’s familiar, relying on others to handle the “God stuff.” This approach allows them to dip their toes in when convenient, without cost or commitment.
I understand this personally because I once lived a version of that life. But I can tell you, unless you dive in and surrender fully to God, you’ll miss countless blessings. When you give your life to Him, you receive far more than you give.
1. God wants you to draw close so you can truly know Him.
2. Don’t fear leaving behind your old life; a new life with God is infinitely better.
3. You’ll find abundant blessings as you learn to listen to God and walk with Him.
The Ten Commandments
Exodus 20:1 Then God spoke all these words:
20:2 “I am the Lord your God, who has brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.
These words are a message to everyone from Father God.
He is the Lord our God.
He rescued the Israelites from slavery. He rescued us too. The Israelites are just getting to know God. Just like when we said yes to Father God, we’re getting to know him every day. We all love him and he loves us.
Imagine father God speaking directly to you through Exodus 20. Revealing his heart and desires for your life.
I hear God saying my child listen to my heart for you, I am the Lord your God who brought you out of bondage out of darkness out of everything that held you captive. Do you know that you are free?
I am with you always. I am here with you so listen to my voice because my voice will lead you and guide you in the right direction today and every day. Listen to my words they are important because they will guide you and show you the way to continue to live in freedom. I want you to live in my peace and to know your purpose. Always know that I am your Father God and there is no one else like Me I don’t want you to put anything or anyone else above Me because there is nothing else in this world that will satisfy you the way I do. The world can tell you that other things can give you meaning peace but those are empty promises only I can fill you with, what you need.
Let me always be first in your life. remember to honor me first and honor your parents and honor those that are in your life and pray for them and pray for those around you. Relationships are a gift. It’s a way to experience my love so keep praying and reaching out to those I put in your life. Let your words thoughts and actions bring life not pain to those around you. You be the light, be faithful to me and continue to learn and teach what is right living and even if it looks like they’re not listening, keep planting my words because you never know but I know so keep up the good work with me, stay faithful to me and what I stand for so they can see what faithfulness looks like.
My Commandments are not to make you feel bad they are a path to freedom. They are my way of leading you into a life of joy, peace, and a purpose. All these words our love words from our heart to you to protect you so learn to guard your heart and draw close to me.
My child remember that these Commandments are not about perfection they are about me teaching you what to do and what not to do. We are on a journey together, my love never fails when you make a mistake because I am with you to help you through it, but you do need to talk to me about it, and I will show you what to do, because I love you I am with you always.
What does means to me is that God is with me and he’s always teaching me right from wrong so I can live in peace and have joy in my heart.
Thank you, father God that you love us so much that you give us instructions and you love to guide us in the right way because you want the best for our life because you love us so much thank you and I love you, father God, Jesus and Your Holy Spirit
PODCAST
This Week in the Life: Exodus 20
For the best experience, we suggest you listen to the first song, the message, and then the second song.
1. Sunday Worship – First Song: https://reachchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20241110-Worship1.wav
2. Sunday Message: https://reachchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20241110-Message.wav
3. Sunday Worship – Second Song: https://reachchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20241110-Worship2.wav
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This week in exorcist chapter 20, I got a song
Praising
Let’s come together to worship our Lord. Let’s come together to worship our Lord praising and lifting our hands being blessed knowing you’re king of Kings the one and only you’re jealous God yes you’re jealous God we only want to worship you our Lord we thank you we thank you for your grace and mercy and your love. We want your closeness a relationship walking hand-in-hand we are blessed you’re always working always working guiding us through We praise you. We praise you. We are praising you our Lord amen.
we are blessed because we have a jealous God who loves us and only wants a special relationship with all of us. Let’s bring others to know our Lord so they don’t miss out. Amen.