GOD SPEAKS AND WE RESPOND
Psalm 119:30–40
Some games seem to be universal and timeless. Most everyone, regardless of age or background, is familiar with hide-and-seek, freeze tag and duck, duck, goose.
Another classic activity from yesteryear is Simon says. In this game, the objective is simple: Mimic what the person says or does only if it is prefaced by the words “Simon says.” If you perform a task without Simon telling you to do so, you are out of the game.
To be successful, you need to be patient and willing to listen carefully. Many fail in this game due to their eagerness to go quickly and not slow down enough to process what is being said.
The same can be said of Christians when God speaks to us. We are often eager to hear from the Lord, but our inattention or hurriedness of mind cause us to miss the great benefit of His words.
You have also probably discovered that when God chooses to speak to you, He will include a command or call to obedience.
When He speaks, we are wise to listen and obey. You may lose when playing Simon says, but it is far more devastating to not respond to what God says.
Choose to obey God’s will. (30–32)
Each day you and I have a choice to make. We can choose to hear and heed God’s words, or we can choose to ignore Him. Notice in these verses the ownership and responsibilities a person has in taking an active part in their faith.
God is not going to make you want Him or crave a deeper intimacy. We are the only ones accountable for our maturation and development when it comes to the discipleship process.
Pastors can help and Sunday School teachers can encourage, but you must intentionally make the decision each day to do God’s will and follow His leading.
Pray for clarity and understanding of what God wants. (33–35)
As we surrender our lives and wills to God, He will teach us. People may claim they do not know how God is leading them. That is not entirely true. Scripture provides for us a clear picture of what God expects.
When we are committed to obeying God, He will bless our efforts. He will guide us as children following a loving parent or as sheep with a shepherd. The issue is not that we do not know what God wants from us; the challenge is following through in obedience and faith.
Desire to follow God more than anything else. (36–40)
What is the result of this powerful intimacy with God and desire to do His will? The answer is simple — despising our own sins and aspiring to live more godly and holy lives. We have everything to gain and nothing to lose when we respond to God.
This is when a revival of righteousness occurs. When we humbly approach God with our great need of restoration and when reconciliation intersects with His great grace and mercy, amazing things will happen. Christ changes lives.
It is what He does, and He is the source of our praise and adoration. His words are true and His ways are perfect.
There are a lot of voices seeking our attention in the world today. Who are you listening to and obeying? God says, “Follow Me!”
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
