The Blessing of Obedience and the Cost of Redemption
Morning: Deuteronomy 28
Evening: Mark 15:27-47
Deuteronomy 28 presents two paths: the blessings of obedience and the curses of disobedience. God desires to bless His people abundantly, but He also warns of the consequences when they turn away from Him. These blessings and curses reveal the heart of God—He longs for His children to walk in His ways so that they may flourish.
In Mark 15:27-47, we see the ultimate fulfillment of God’s justice and mercy. Jesus bore the curse of sin upon Himself as He hung on the cross, suffering the consequences that we deserved. As the earth trembled and the veil in the temple was torn, He opened the way for us to be restored to God. Because of Christ’s sacrifice, we are no longer bound by the curse of sin—His death brings us into the blessings of eternal life. But just as obedience brought blessings in Deuteronomy, our response to Christ’s sacrifice should be a life of surrender, walking in His ways.
Key Insights
- Obedience Brings Blessings – God delights in blessing those who walk in His ways, but He also warns of the dangers of turning away (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).
- Jesus Took the Curse Upon Himself – The punishment for sin was placed upon Christ, fulfilling the justice of God and bringing us into His grace (Galatians 3:13).
- The Cross Is the Ultimate Turning Point – When Jesus died, the veil in the temple was torn, symbolizing that we now have direct access to God (Mark 15:38).
- We Must Respond to Christ’s Sacrifice – Just as Israel had to choose obedience to receive blessings, we must choose to live for Christ in gratitude for His redemption.
- True Blessing Is Found in Christ – The greatest blessing is not just material prosperity but the salvation and eternal life given through Jesus.
Connection to Other Scripture
- Galatians 3:13 (KJV): “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us.”
- John 10:10 (KJV): “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”
- 2 Corinthians 5:21 (KJV): “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
- Romans 6:22 (KJV): “But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.”
Questions to Reflect On
- Am I walking in obedience to God, trusting Him for the blessings He has promised?
- How does Christ’s sacrifice change the way I live each day?
- Do I truly appreciate the price Jesus paid for my redemption?
- How can I respond in faith and gratitude for the freedom I have in Christ?
- Am I seeking temporary blessings, or do I value the eternal blessings found in Jesus?
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your blessings and for the warnings You give in love. I acknowledge that I have fallen short, but I am grateful that Jesus took the punishment for my sins upon Himself. Help me to walk in obedience, not just to receive blessings but because I love You. May I live in the fullness of Your grace, never taking for granted the sacrifice of Christ. Strengthen me to follow You faithfully and trust in the eternal blessings You have given. In Jesus’ name, Amen.