The end of the whole matter let us hear: – ‘Fear God, and keep His commands, for this is the whole of mankind. [Ecclesiastes 12]

The term “bottom line,” in a figurative sense, is from profit and loss accounting, where the final figure is on the last line or bottom of the page.” After all of the figuring and adjustments are made, it is the conclusion.  What is left and arguably what is most important.

After studying the Old Testament/Tanakh the bottom line is clear and clearly stated by many. Its about relationships.  Its about roles and responsibilities within the relationships.  Its about the most important of all relationships — that with God. God’s role is like that of a Father or Husband; of multi-faceted provision and protection above all. It is how God demonstrates love for us.

‘And now, Israel, what is Yehowah your God asking from you, except to fear Yehowah your God, to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve Yehowah God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, to keep the commands of Yehowah, and His statutes which I am commanding you today, for good to you? [Deuteronomy 10]

Our role is also multi-faceted yet simple. In a word, “obedience.” This obedience isn’t like a dog obeys a harsh master, with ears laid back , sad eyed, and tail tucked between its legs. No, this obedience stands tall, shoulders squared and eyes fixed.  It trusts unreservedly with wholehearted loyalty and appreciation. It seeks the greater good selflessly — with deference for God who is infinitely more intelligent, knowing, capable, powerful, and loving. This obedience, with these ideals as a foundation, creates within us a will to do what we are told just because we’re told by God. It is how God experiences love from us.

He has declared to you, O mankind, what [is] good; Yes, what is Yehowah requiring of you, Except — to do justly, and love kindness, and lowly to walk with thy God?
[Micah 6]

end part 10