In my study of scripture, the 10 Commandments or 10 Words are set in such a way as to be a universal framework for how we navigate life in the Kingdom of God, or, the Promise Land. When viewed as positive words, the Ten Words turn into Ten Values: God, Reason, Respect, Rest, Family, Life, Loyalty, Work, Truth, and Contentment.
“Do not add to or subtract from these commands I am giving you. Just obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you.”
Deuteronomy 4:2 NLT
These Ten Values are not “check-the-box-then-go-to-heaven” instructions. It first starts with our sincere need to have a covenantal relationship with God in his kingdom. They are roadmaps as we navigate the Wilderness to help us reach the Promise Land.