In the world today, people like to do what they feel is good. Also, they believe that what is good or right for them should be good for all, though it could be harmful to others. And for doing what they feel, there should not be restrictions from government authorities or any other authorities. Moses, the Lawgiver warned centuries ago about this latest trend: “You shall not do according to all that we are doing here today, everyone doing whatever is right in his own eyes, for you have not as yet come to the rest and to the inheritance that the Lord your God is giving you.” (Deuteronomy 12:9)
Preparation: Israelites who were slaves in Egypt, were obedient to the direction and dictates of the taskmasters. They were not capable of handling freedom so they were punished to wander for forty years in the wilderness. These years were the preparation of the people to become responsible citizens when they possessed the Promised Land. For that, God gave elaborate moral, ceremonial, worship, and hygiene laws. Laws will govern them, not their petty desires, lust, preferences, and choices.
Dignity: God-chosen people cannot be a bunch of rogues or rebels or a violent mob. They were organized in terms of social life, spiritual life, and political organization and equipped them militarily to possess the Promised Land. They were not just family members, but a Nation, governed by the Law and became responsible citizens of the New Nation. If the Law is ignored, they will perish as a nation.
Identity: God gave them a new identity. They were treasured possessions of God. (Exodus 19:5) They were also called the firstborn of all nations in the world. (Exodus 4:22) People of God must keep up the status God had bestowed upon them.
Global model: God has given them the Ten Commandments that apply to all humanity. Their standard of morality should be higher than all other nations. Thus, becoming models for all nations.
Do I do what is right in my eyes or God’s eyes?