I’m fond of the “do not” commands because God makes it very clear what not to do and you always know when you’ve disobeyed. The good news is you can immediately ask for forgiveness, which God promises to grant, and then you try to do better. The key is to come before God humbly and with a contrite heart because God loves to dispense mercy. Your walk with God is a journey, a life-long sanctification process whereby you grow in Christ over time.
16. Do not be like the hypocrites in prayer.
Matthew 6:5 – And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
See my previous comments on how to approach the throne of grace. Prayer is a private conversation between you and God and not to impress others or puff yourself up. God tells you when you speak to him you need to go to a quiet, private place and shut your door so as not to be disturbed. God makes it clear he won’t answer prayers done for show.
17. Do not be afraid of men.
Luke 12:4 – And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.
God is telling believers once they’ve received the gift of eternal life by his grace they are friends of God. This life is brief and we’re all going to die at some point. Believers are in God’s hands and our security is guaranteed so we need fear no one. The one to fear is God, if you are not his friend, because only God can send a person to hell for eternity.
18. Do not be conformed to this world.
Romans 12:2 – And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of you mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Once God has given you salvation unto eternal life your priority becomes your spiritual life and doing the will of God. The world will hate you for this because you cannot serve both God and man. Never forget our citizenship is in heaven. We’re visiting down here to determine whether we serve God or Satan. Choose wisely.
19. Do not be drunk with wine.
Ephesians 5:18 – And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.
Dissipation means a waste of energy or resources. God is telling you drinking is a waste of time better spent seeking the will of God in your life. When you’re drinking your guard is down making you an easier target for Satan. Satan is trying to destroy you 24/7 so why would you leave yourself wide open to attack? Be moderate in all things.
20. Do not bid false teachers Godspeed.
2 John 10-11 – If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.
Do not bless anyone who espouses anything other than God’s Word or have close intimate contact with them or you will be tarred with the same brush.
Witnessing for Christ