Obedience
‘…the Israelites did not obey the Lord….they would not listen and they would not obey’ 2 Kings 18:12 (Goodnews)
We have all heard that obedience is better than sacrifice. Although it sounds more like a cliché, the truth embedded in this simple, yet profound, statement cannot be over emphasised. In fact, it is usually easier to obey an instruction than make up for disobedience. Take the case of a traffic law offender who has to spend hours explaining himself to traffic officers why he was in too much hurry to obey traffic laws.
The Israelites were a people chosen exclusively by God – He loved them without measure, He won’t allow anything grieve them. But when they disobeyed, they faced the consequences! The scriptures tell us they fell because they disobeyed the Lord and did all the things that He commanded them not to do through Moses. (2 Kings 18:12)
Same applies to us, whenever we disobey an instruction, we fall prey to so many unpleasant things.
Today, let’s have a deep rethink: are we fully obeying or flagrantly disobeying God’s laws and precepts? Some of us have even devised a modern way of obedience like King Saul (1 Samuel 15).
It is important to note that when He gives a command, He expects total adherence – we must obey to the last letter! Truth is, our obedience is a way of showing our love, affection, trust and respect for Him.
Did you say this applies more to your life as a Christian or ‘church-life’?
Sadly no! You have only ONE LIFE – you are not expected to have a life for the church and another outside it! Are we obedient to the laws of the land or do we bring dishonour to God by our disobedience? Remember that we are meant to be light in a dark world and our deeds should bring men to the Father. As such, we must not be found to be breakers of constitutional laws, nor should God give us up to be oppressed for our disobedience.
Prayer Focus
Faithful Father, enable me to show forth my love for You by totally obeying You; leaving the old customs, being a good citizen and serving You alone wholeheartedly in Jesus’ amazing name.
Written by Olushola Oludayo (@sholape1) of @theLAfamily