READING: Psalms 79-81, Romans 16
Over the years, I have not always listened to God. Unless I miss my guess, you, too, have made similar poor decisions at some point in your spiritual walk. It’s just too easy to determine our own ways are best, our own choices won’t hurt us, our temporary decisions won’t lead to lasting consequences. Like the Hebrews, we ignore the voice of God:
- “Listen, my people, and I will admonish you. Israel, if you would only listen to me!” (Psa 81:8)
- “But my people did not listen to my voice; Israel did not obey me.” (Psa 81:11)
- “If only my people would listen to me and Israel would follow my ways . . . “ (Psa 81:13)
God would have blessed them and subdued their enemies had the Hebrews listened to Him, and the result was tragic: God “gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own plans” (Psa 81:12). That price is far too much to pay when we choose to listen to our own voices rather than God’s voice. Our own stubborn hearts never lead us in the right direction.
PRAYER: “Lord, give me listening ears and a trusting heart.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: Determine any place where you are not currently listening to God’s direction—and repent.
TOMORROW’S READING: Psalms 82-86, 1 Corinthians 1