Today’s Post By: Rae Lynn DeAngelis
Obedience is one of my stronger qualities, but every once in a while I find myself tempting fate, seeing how far I can push the limit without getting caught.
Whenever my husband and I take long road trips, our goal is to make the trip in record time. If the highway speed limit is 70 mph, I set the cruise control on 75. (I’ve been told this is a “safe” speed to travel and not attract attention from highway patrolmen.) Unfortunately, a level of stress accompanies my disobedience because I’m constantly looking over my shoulder, scanning the perimeter for cops.
Why?
Because I’m breaking the law and don’t want to get caught.
As Christians we sometimes approach our journey with God the same way. We subconsciously wonder how far we can cross the line of disobedience and not stir up God’s anger.
The Bible says, “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God.” Yet how many times has the phrase, “Oh my God!” flippantly escaped from our lips?
The Bible says, “Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.” But sometimes weeks will go by without a day of rest.
The Bible says, “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.” And still we slightly stretch the truth or share information that dishonors others.
The Bible says, “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house, spouse, or belongings.” And yet millions are living outside their means, trying to keep up with the “Jones”.
Like disregard for speed limitations, disobedience to God’s clear cut commandments only hurts us in the end.
Disrespect for God’s name discredits our witness.
Disregard for proper rest causes irritability and illness.
A careless word or gossip discredits our character.
Attempts to satisfy every longing of the heart leads to financial ruin.
God doesn’t place boundaries to deny us of good things. He places boundaries because He wants us to thrive and flourish and knows the exact conditions to best make that happen.
Oh… and in case you’re wondering… I’m preaching to the choir here. After all, I’m a work in progress too!
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” (James 1:22)
“If anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him.” (1 John 2:5)
