By Dr. Floyd Godfrey

In a world often marred by chaos and confusion, God’s commandments stand as clear boundaries designed for our well-being. While some may mistakenly see these boundaries as random efforts to control human behavior, they are, in fact, an expression of God’s infinite wisdom and love. As the Creator, He knows the intricacies of human nature and has provided these commandments to guide us toward lives filled with purpose, health, and joy.

Boundaries Rooted in Love

God’s commandments are not arbitrary; they are divinely crafted for our benefit. Just as a parent establishes rules to protect a child, God’s guidelines aim to shield us from harm and direct us toward what is good and righteous. Zach Clinton offers a striking analogy: “Making a fire in a fireplace creates a pleasing atmosphere, spurs creativity, brings warmth, and can cook food. But if you play around with fire, dabble with it outside the proper boundaries, it can ignite in a potentially deadly way. If not dealt with immediately, it can destroy everything in its path” (2024a, p. 42).

In this way, God’s commandments create a “fireplace” for our lives—a structure within which we can thrive. When we step outside those boundaries, we risk devastation in areas ranging from relationships to health, mirroring the uncontrollable destruction of fire outside its proper confines.

Understanding Human Nature

God, who created us, understands our desires, struggles, and potential. His commandments are perfectly aligned with the way we are made. C.S. Lewis, as cited by Zach Clinton, articulated this truth powerfully: “Surrender to all our desires obviously leads to impotence, disease, jealousies, lies, concealment, and everything that is the reverse of health, good humour and frankness. For any happiness, even in this world, quite a lot of restraint is going to be necessary; so the claim made by every desire, when it is strong, to be healthy and reasonable, counts for nothing” (2024a, p. 43).

This quote underscores the importance of restraint and the wisdom behind God’s boundaries. Without limits, human desires can spiral into destructive behaviors, leaving individuals trapped in pain and regret. God’s commandments, however, offer a framework that encourages discipline, truth, and integrity—qualities essential for a fulfilling life.

Protection in a Broken World

The world is fraught with challenges and temptations, making God’s boundaries all the more essential. His commandments help us navigate this broken world without succumbing to its snares. By adhering to His guidance, we avoid pitfalls such as addiction, relational breakdowns, and moral compromise. These commandments serve not only as a map for righteousness but also as a shield against the destructive forces of sin.

The Power of Obedience

When we obey God’s commandments, we align ourselves with His perfect will. This obedience is not about blind compliance but about trusting in God’s wisdom and love. His boundaries are an invitation to experience the best He has for us, both in this life and the next. As Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

In following God’s commandments, we embrace a life of abundance, rooted in the safety and warmth of His boundaries. They are not meant to suppress us but to guide us into the richness of His blessings.

Floyd Godfrey, PhD, is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed counselor for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.

References
Clinton, Z. (2024a). Even If - Developing the Faith, Mindset, Strength and Endurance of Those Who Are Built Different. American Association of Christian Counselors Publishing.