On Walking in the Covenant

Having treated in the preceding lectures upon faith, the knowledge of God, His character, His unity, the necessity of sacrifice, and the consequences and fulfillment of faith, it now remains to consider the manner in which these principles are carried into effect in the daily life of the faithful, even in walking before God.

For it is not sufficient that a man should possess faith, or knowledge, or even a desire to obey; he must also walk in that which God has revealed, that his faith may be living and his knowledge established.

This walking is spoken of in the scriptures as a way, or derech (path), and is expressed by the manner of life which a man pursues before God.

Concerning this it is written: “Walk before me, and be thou perfect.” (Genesis 17:1)

And again: “This is the way (derech), walk ye in it.” (Isaiah 30:21)

From these testimonies it is evident that faith is not confined to the heart or mind, but must be made manifest in the walk (halak), or manner of life.

It is therefore necessary to understand that the faithful are required to order their lives according to the instruction (Torah) of God, which He has given for their guidance.

For it is written: “Ye shall walk in all the ways which Yahovah your God hath commanded you.” (Deuteronomy 5:33)

From this it is evident that obedience is not occasional, but continual, and that the life of the faithful is governed in all things by the commandments (mitzvot) of God.

It is also necessary to understand that this walk is established through daily remembrance and diligence in the word (davar) of God.

For it is written: “Thou shalt meditate therein day and night.” (Joshua 1:8)

From this it is evident that the faithful are to set their minds continually upon the instruction of God, that they may walk rightly before Him.

It is likewise necessary to understand that God has appointed times (moedim) and seasons, by which His people are reminded of His works and instructed in His ways.

For it is written: “These are the appointed times of Yahovah, which ye shall proclaim.” (Leviticus 23:2)

From this it is evident that the ordering of time itself is given for the strengthening of faith, that men might remember God and walk in obedience.

It is also necessary to understand that the walk of the faithful includes not only outward actions, but also the condition of the heart and the words which proceed from the mouth.

For it is written: “Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.” (Psalm 34:13)

And again: “Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer.” (Leviticus 19:16)

From this it is evident that the faithful must guard their speech and thoughts, for these are also part of their walk before God.

It is likewise necessary to understand that the faithful do not walk alone, but as a people called by God, bound together in covenant.

For it is written: “Ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.” (Exodus 19:6)

From this it is evident that the walk of faith includes fellowship, instruction, and mutual strengthening among those who seek to obey God.

It is also necessary to understand that this walk requires perseverance, for it is not accomplished in a moment, but over the course of a lifetime.

For it is written: “He that endureth to the end shall be saved.” (Matthew 24:13)

From this it is evident that the faithful must continue steadfast, not turning aside from the commandments of God.

It is likewise necessary to understand that the Spirit (ruach) of God aids those who walk in obedience, strengthening them and guiding them in the right path.

For it is written: “Thy Spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.” (Psalm 143:10)

And again: “I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes.” (Ezekiel 36:27)

From this it is evident that God does not leave His people without help, but provides strength that they may walk in His ways.

Therefore, the life of faith is this: to walk (halak) in the way (derech) of God, according to His instruction (Torah), in obedience to His commandments (mitzvot), with a heart set upon Him.

Where this walk is established, faith becomes living, knowledge becomes sure, and the promises of God draw near.

But where this walk is neglected, faith grows weak, knowledge becomes uncertain, and the blessings of God are not obtained.

It is therefore necessary that all who seek after life and salvation should order their lives according to the will of God, walking before Him in all things.

For by this walk the faithful are preserved, strengthened, and prepared to receive the inheritance spoken of in the promises of God.