Obedience

Over the years, I have heard that most couples argue, and sometimes split up, due to finances. Sometimes, there is more month than money. There’s barely enough gas in the car to get to church, let alone any extra to tithe. The hot dogs and left-overs have been stretched as far as they can go. A close family member or friend finds themselves in a bond and needs a small loan. The rent or mortgage is past due and eviction or foreclosure is pending. The job market is slow and no one seems to be hiring.

Maybe finances aren’t the issue. God’s whisper says it’s time to let go. No more addiction. That “friend” is not really a friend. The affair should never have started and now has lasted too long. The developing relationship is unwholesome. Club nights are over. The past is over and God’s forgiveness prevails. God created mankind in His own image so there’s no more insecurity. God’s love surpasses all understanding so there is no loneliness.  

What’s in your heart? Are you listening to the voice of God? Through your actions, are you obeying Him and His word? James 11:22-25 (NIV) tells us, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it – not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it – they will be blessed in what they do.”

Obedience is not always easy. It’s hard to pay tithes when everything else in life is tugging at the pocket. It’s hard to invest in yourself when bills are lining the mailbox. It’s hard to let go of the person or thing that gives you temporary satisfaction. It’s hard to let go of the lies you have believed for so long. But obedience will force us to press through in spite of the difficulty.  

There is no much more in store. Obedience has been defined as dutiful or submissive compliance. Actions are required, not just thoughts. When God speaks, listen and follow. Move full speed ahead and don’t look back. Submit yourself unto the Lord and your blessings will surely come.