By Sara Guigou – Vandalia, Ohio
There are times when I feel that there are inconsiderate, non-law-abiding car drivers on the road. They drive incredibly close to the back of my car; they swerve in and out of their lane; they (apparently) decide that using their turn signal is optional.
What’s bad is that I’m probably more like those drivers than I want to admit!
Why Rules Matter
With that said, there are many benefits to abiding by the rules of the road. It promotes an organizational unity among fellow travelers.
Imagine the utter stress, confusion and danger if we had no vehicular regulations! Since the highway system was formed in the United States, clear guidelines have been set, not to be a burden to drivers but rather to facilitate safe, peaceful travel for all people.
That reminds me of being citizens of heaven. Learning God’s will teaches us the truths to obey that are a fruitful blessing to me and those around me.
We promote God’s peace and blessings as we abide by the rules of God’s highway.
God even goes so far as to tell us that in keeping his precepts, we are walking in his love.
“For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.” 1 John 5:3 (ESV)
What Obedience Brings
Obeying God’s commands brings us only good. Rather than walking in our fleshly desires (what I FEEL like doing and how I FEEL like behaving), our obedience to God’s will stems from our desire to live out the Christ within us.
God asks us to “drive away” from things that bring division and destruction. If we go against God’s precepts, we hurt ourselves and others. Obedience to a loving parent’s wishes doesn’t limit us, it brings long term freedom, success, and joy.
It’s great to know God’s loving commandments. They not only tell us how to think and act, but they also lay out his living benefits to us. Let’s look at how obedience to commanded actions result in supernatural blessings.
“[ACTION:] Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness (meekness, mildness, gentleness) be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
[BLESSING:] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
[ACTION:] Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things,
[BLESSING:] and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:4-9 (ESV)
This a but a sampling of scripture, yet it shows how the benefits and blessings are directly linked to commands.
Also of note is that there is absolutely no burden added as the will of the Father is being lived out. When we live according to precepts that God has established in scripture, we know that there are benefits and blessings to ourselves and others.
Let’s keep seeking God’s “rules of the road” and enjoy the benefits of the journey.
Sara Guigou is surrounded by a loving husband, Kevin, six wonderful children (includes spouses), and seven amazing grandchildren. She holds an Associates of Theology Degree. Sara is thankful to be able to share about Christ’s love and grace with others. Sara lives in Vandalia, Ohio.