I can so relate to today’s devotion concerning the importance of following instructions. So many times I have acted on the belief that I can do things my own way, without referring to guidance from the creator – whether it is the creator of the shelving unit I’m trying to put together, the cake I am trying to bake, or the life I am trying to live. Failing to even refer to, let alone follow the instructions, I ended up with damaged shelves, a cake that did not rise, and a life that became unmanageable.
Jesus gives us clear instructions (in addition to being the perfect model) for living our lives. He tells us that it won’t be easy, “For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Mat 7:14). A Christian who is earnestly “following the instructions” risks being misunderstood and may appear foolish to the world, but to overcome the world, doesn’t it makes sense that one might have to look and act differently from it?
Having spent much of my life without the instructions, then a good part of my life refusing the instructions, I’ve finally decided to follow Jesus. My only regret is failing to arrive at this decision much sooner.
I can agree with what you are saying Greg, it has been through the school of hard knocks that I have come to understand how important it is to follow the instructions. I must say though, we must be careful when following the instructions and following the rules that we line up with God's Word. In the verses just prior to today's reading Jesus tells of some that think they are doing right but will find out later that they were just being religious and it is costly.
ReplyDeleteSo true Jimmy. Jesus tells us the difference between obedience and religion can be found in what is produced. "You will recognize them by their fruits." Matthew 7:16(a)
ReplyDelete