In verse 18 we learn that if we hearken to the commandments
we’ll have peace like a river and our righteousness will be like the waves of
the sea. Interesting analogies. “Peace as a river” conjures up images of
wide, deep, calm waters. A river moves
from place to place and is never stagnant.
Rivers are what people live near.
They provide transportation and are life sustaining (like the
Nile). “Righteousness as the waves of
the sea” refers to a different sort of body of water. Waves denote strength and
relentlessness. Righteousness doesn’t
usually have that reputation, but it surely deserves it, as righteousness born
of hearkening to the Lord’s commandments wreaks havoc on the designs of the
adversary. Living the commandments
brings a deep abiding peace and an unconquerable righteousness which will bring
us joy in this life and the promise of life eternal in the world to come. Let us then hearken to the Lord’s
commandments, especially giving attention to the first and great commandment to
love the Lord with all our heart, mind and strength. And remember the second, also – to love our
neighbor (and spouse and family) as ourselves.
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