How can we avoid the curses described in Deuteronomy 28:28 through obedience?
PlacingDeuteronomy 28:28 in Context
“The LORD will afflict you with madness, blindness, and confusion of mind.”
This verse sits within a larger covenant framework in which obedience brings blessing and disobedience invites curse (Deuteronomy 28:1-2, 15). The warning is literal, serious, and meant to stir God’s people toward wholehearted loyalty.
Why Obedience Shields Us from the Curse• Obedience aligns us with the character of a holy God who cannot bless rebellion (Leviticus 11:44).
• Obedience positions us under the protective promises God eagerly fulfills (Deuteronomy 7:9).
• Obedience demonstrates love for God, which is the core requirement of the covenant (Deuteronomy 6:5;John 14:15).
Foundational Attitudes That Foster Obedience• Reverent fear of the LORD: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Psalm 111:10).
• Delight in the Word: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).
• Single-minded devotion: “You shall have no other gods before Me” (Exodus 20:3).
Daily Practices That Keep the Heart Aligned1. Scripture Saturation
• Read, memorize, and meditate on God’s commands (Joshua 1:8).
• Use the Word to test thoughts, feelings, and decisions, guarding against the “confusion of mind” warned inDeuteronomy 28:28.
2. Persistent Prayerful Dependence
• Invite the Spirit to search and correct hidden motives (Psalm 139:23-24).
• Seek strength to obey, knowing human resolve alone falters (Philippians 2:13).
3. Immediate Repentance and Confession
• Confess sin as soon as conviction comes (1 John 1:9).
• Receive cleansing so the cycle of disobedience never gains momentum.
4. Community Accountability
• “Iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17).
• Faithful brothers and sisters supply counsel, encouragement, and loving correction.
5. Regular Remembrance of God’s Works
• Rehearse past deliverances, just as Israel was told to remember the Exodus (Deuteronomy 5:15).
• Gratitude fuels loyalty and wards off spiritual blindness.
Christ and the Curse• “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us” (Galatians 3:13).
• Union with Him does not nullify the moral law; it empowers obedience through grace (Romans 6:14).
• By walking in the Spirit we fulfill the righteous requirement of the law, staying clear of covenant penalties (Romans 8:4).
Markers of a Life EscapingDeuteronomy 28:28• Soundness of mind anchored in truth (2 Timothy 1:7).
• Spiritual vision that discerns good from evil (Hebrews 5:14).
• Peace replacing confusion as the God of peace guards the heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).
Encouragement for Ongoing Faithfulness• God’s commands are “not burdensome” (1 John 5:3) when fueled by love.
• “The one who perseveres to the end will be saved” (Matthew 24:13).
• Every step of obedience testifies to a living, covenant-keeping God who delights to bless His people.
