“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” – Ja.1:22
We’ve all been guilty of not doing what we know we should. That is especially true in regards to doing what God tells us to do. We hear His word, know what He says, but refuse to obey. Do you realize that you would have been better off had you not had the opportunity to hear His word? Hearing it makes you accountable. Unto whom much is given, of him shall much be required.
I’ve heard people talk about leaving church the same way they came, but, while that might be true in a sense, technically it isn’t true. Having heard the word of God we leave better or worse than when we came– depending on our response. While submission softens the heart, rejection hardens it. So, refusing to respond to God’s word is dangerous. It changes us and the way God deals with us. In doing what we please and getting what we want we often miss getting what is best.
Isn’t it strange – all of creation responds to the voice of it’s Creator, except man. A mother responds to the cries of her child. The hungry person responds to a meal. People respond to the offer of a “better” job. Most people respond to the commands of a law enforcement officer. Why then do we refuse to respond to God – the Highest Authority? In this they do themselves a terrible injustice.
What we all need to remember is this – regardless of whether or not we personally benefit from obedience we are still obligated to obey God. Our responsibility is more important than our comfort or compensation. Although obedience to God always results in a great reward eventually it can subject us to great difficulties at the moment. If our main concern is to glorify God we will do as He commands regardless of the cost, circumstances, or consequences. We need to heed the advice of Mary who said, “Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it” (John 2:5). That alone makes you a success in life!
