Wednesday: Not simply, “because God said so”

“God said it. I believe it, and that’s good enough for me.”

Fair enough, but how often do we stop to consider why God gave some of His commands?  Does God simply enjoy bossing us around?  In many cases (spoiler alert!), it’s because obeying those commands can lead to good things – for us and others.

What’s the end result?
No, living out the Gospel message does not necessarily lead to fame and fortune in the earthly sense.  Because of the sinful world culture – and sometimes because of our own fumbles and stumbles – a Godly lifestyle is not always comfortable.

Yet, living out biblical principles such as those in I Timothy is not only glorifying to God, it’s beneficial for us -- not only for eternity, but for the “right now,” too.

We win!
We’ve already considered the “peaceful and quiet life” mentioned in I Timothy 2 (and that can happen despite real and certain challenges).  Further, while some grapple with God’s design for authority in the family and the church, consider that people will benefit from “holy hands” doing “good works.”  Persevering parents can have the joy of raising physically and spiritually healthy children (who, God willing, will repeat the process, blessing many others along the way).

It’s not always easy to sort out the messes of life, family, and church, but with God’s help, it’s worth it!
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Journaling questions:
1.  What benefits do you see in obeying God’s guidance in His Word?
2.  What needs to be adjusted in your daily lifestyle that will glorify God and serve others?
3.  How will you pray (and act) to make these adjustments happen?