Not Even the Slightest Thought

What is God's will for me?

• That not even the slightest thought or desire contrary to any one of His commandments should ever arise in my heart.   
• Rather with all my heart I should always hate sin and take pleasure in whatever is right.

But can I obey these commandments perfectly?

• No. 
• In this life even the holiest have only a small beginning of this obedience.  
• Nevertheless, with all seriousness of purpose, I can begin to live according to all, not only some, of God's commandments.

No one in this life can obey the Ten Commandments perfectly: 

• Why then does God want them to be preached so pointedly?

First, 

• so that the longer I live the more I may come to know my sinfulness 
• and the more eagerly look to Christ for forgiveness of sins and righteousness.  

Second, 

• so that, while praying for the grace of the Holy Spirit, 
• I may never stop striving to be renewed more and more after God's image, 
• until after this life I reach my goal: perfection.

The Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 44