Commandments bring blessings in that we get blessings when we keep the commandments, but there are ways in which we can view the commandments themselves as blessings. Since we get blessings when we keep the commandments, we could view each commandment we receive as an opportunity to get more blessings. God's commandments also steer us away from doing things that would cause negative natural consequences, so we can thank God for giving us such commandments to help us avoid pitfalls. Because God uses commandments to help us avoid problems and obtain blessings, these commandments act as evidence of God's love. And if we look at commandments more as advice that we'd do well to follow than as rules that we'd be punished for breaking, then God's commandments seem more like the guidance of a father than like the dictates of a tyrant.
The whole idea of commandments still leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I dislike that we live in a world where we can't just do as we choose without any fear of consequences. But since there are consequences, I'm grateful that God warns us about them. Since there are blessings that are ours for the taking, I'm grateful God tells us how to get them. And I'm grateful that God doesn't force us to do what's in our own best interest, but instead gives us the freedom of whether to listen to Him or not. I don't like the idea of being told what to do, but I still have many options, and in the face of options, I am grateful to be given sound advice. There are ways to look at commandments in a positive light, to see them as blessings and opportunities rather than restrictions and obligations. I should try to look on the bright side more often and to see God's commandments for the blessings they really are.
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