Deuteronomy 6:18

And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the Lord: that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the Lord sware unto thy fathers,

Deuteronomy 6:18 (KJV)

Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and part of the Torah, the law given by God to Israel through Moses. This verse belongs to Moses’ address to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. He reminds them of their duty to follow God’s commandments as they prepare to possess the land.

Meaning

The verse calls God’s people to do “that which is right and good in the sight of the LORD.” This means God has set a standard of righteousness and goodness, and His people must align their actions with His revealed will. The promise is twofold: “that it may be well with thee” and “that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers.” Obedience leads to personal well-being and to the inheritance of the land God promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The standard is not defined by human opinion but by God’s commandments, which are holy, just, and good (Romans 7:12).

Biblical connections

The immediate context of Deuteronomy 6 includes the Shema, the call to love God wholeheartedly. This verse applies that covenant loyalty to practical obedience. The land is described as “good,” showing God’s gracious provision. The promise of well-being and inheritance is tied to the nation’s obedience in the land. For Christians, the ultimate fulfillment of this inheritance comes through Christ, who fulfilled the law perfectly, and in the new creation. The principle remains: doing what is right and good in God’s sight leads to blessing and ultimately to the full possession of God’s promises.

Application

As believers, we are called to do what is right and good in the sight of the Lord. We should seek His guidance and desire to please Him in all aspects of life. Obedience to God’s commands brings His blessings and leads to the fulfillment of His promises. While the specific promise of the land was for Israel, the principle remains: following God’s ways leads to true well-being and the inheritance He has promised. Trust that His ways lead to blessing and to the full possession of His promises.

Reflection

Consider your daily choices. Are they shaped by God’s standard of right and good, or by your own preferences? Let obedience be your response to His covenant faithfulness.