Obedience to God's Commandments
God wants His children to be happy. For this reason He gave us commandments and instructions to follow them. To the Prophet Joseph Smith He said, “But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come.”
Doctrine and Covenants 59:23
The Book of Mormon Teaches Us to keep God’s Commandments
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The Book of Mormon provides guidance and reminds us to be obedient to God’s commandments.
God gives you commandments for your benefit, as they are instructions on how to have a happy and productive life. The more you learn about and love God, the more you will desire to do His will (
God has given you agency—the ability and opportunity to choose between good and evil. When you obey God by following the influence of the Spirit and choosing to conform to His will, you demonstrate your love for Him. Disobedience will bring you sorrow.
Heavenly Father knows your weaknesses and is patient with you. He will bless you as you strive to obey His commandments.
God revealed to Moses the Ten Commandments to guide His people:
- “Thou shalt have no other gods before me” (
Exodus 20:3 ). - “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image” (
Exodus 20:4 ). - “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain” (
Exodus 20:7 ). - “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (
Exodus 20:8 ). - “Honour thy father and thy mother” (
Exodus 20:12 ). - “Thou shalt not kill” (
Exodus 20:13 ). - “Thou shalt not commit adultery” (
Exodus 20:14 ). - “Thou shalt not steal” (
Exodus 20:15 ). - “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour” (
Exodus 20:16 ). - “Thou shalt not covet” (
Exodus 20:17 ).
The Ten Commandments are still valid today, and they teach everyone to worship and show reverence for God and how to treat one another. Obeying the Ten Commandments blesses individuals, families, and communities.
