Thursday, February 14, 2013

Obedient Or Not

Exodus 19:1-25

Will you trust God, or not? Will you do what he says, or not? Will you give him your all, or not? That was the choice God put to the Israelites as they continued on their journey through the wilderness. They had just reached Mount Sinai, which historically was a very holy place for them. It was here that God chose to speak to the people and confirm their commitment to his plan for their lives. He didn't give all the details or even say what the next step would be, but he did share with them his vision. It was for them to be his own special, holy nation; a kingdom of priests (vv.5-6)

Now God knows his creation, so before he charged them with such a monumental task, he reminded them of all he had done for them in the recent past. He reflected on how he brought them out of Egypt and defeated Pharaoh and his army on their behalf. He sweetened the deal a bit, so to speak, to help them make the right decision. Obey him fully, even if blindly, and receive his blessings; or not, and struggle through life without his special care. (Those of you familiar with the story know that what the Hebrews said was not always what they did; surely everyone can relate to that.)

So before he told them one word of what would be required of them as his chosen nation, the Israelites had to agree to do those things. Fortunately, they made the right choice and agreed; but, like I said, just because the Hebrews said it didn't mean that is what would happen. Of course, God knew this better than anyone so, again, before he revealed himself to the people from the mountain top, he called Moses up and told him to go remind the people of his warning (not to pass the boundaries set around the mountain) lest they be put to death (v.12).

I imagine Moses only complained about the directive because it would require him to go all the way back down the mountain and come all the way back up again. Surely, he could not have really thought they did not need the reminder. As much grief as those people had given him along that journey, you would think he would want to post signs and guards to keep them from getting out of line. Once he was done protesting, he did what God told him to do - go down warn the people again and bring Aaron back with him.

The funny thing about this chapter is that it reminds me of the way things are today. Honestly, how many of us, when told by God - or even man for that matter - to do something without being given all the details just hop to? At the very least, I know I'll have some questions as I'm on my way to do whatever it may be. But as stubborn as the Israelites had been, they went right along with it. Conversely, as obedient as Moses had been, he pushed back a little. The thing is, though, that everything God requires of us is for his glory and our good. Disobedience can only bring turmoil and strife, making things much more difficult than they need to be.

So I pray, God, please help me to obey swiftly and wholeheartedly when you tell me to go, do, say, believe or whatever the case may be. Bridle my tongue and harness my mind so I don't question the goodness of your will for me. Help me to be consistent and sincere in all things pertaining to you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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