While studying the Ten Commandments in preparation for a recent sermon, I discovered something that had previously escaped my notice. The ratio was striking: eight commandments tell us what not to do, while only two, observing the Sabbath and honoring our parents, give us positive actions to take.

This imbalance isn’t accidental. God understands our human nature intimately. He knows we’re naturally drawn toward choices that conflict with His purposes for our lives. The apostle Paul referred to this tendency as “the flesh.” There are those bodily impulses and desires that often pull us away from God’s best.

Living as a Christian involves both action and restraint. Yes, we’re called to bear good fruit, as Jesus taught when He said we can recognize a tree by its fruit. Our faith should manifest itself in visible acts of love toward God and others.

But there’s another side to this spiritual equation that deserves equal attention: the things we choose not to do because of our commitment to God. These aren’t just arbitrary restrictions, but they’re evidence of a transformed heart that has new priorities and values.

This dual nature of faith raises two essential questions every believer should regularly consider:
“What positive fruit is my life producing?” and “What behaviors is my faith preventing me from pursuing?”

Both questions matter. Together, they paint a complete picture of what it means to follow Jesus.