Rebellious Nature
Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. Luke 6:46-47 (NIV)
We all struggle with this spiritual diagnosis. It is the malady where we say things like “I don’t want to do it His way. I think I’ll do it my way because it makes more sense.” Or maybe we don’t even ask the Father what we should do but just jump in with our own plan of action. Both are symptoms of rebellion and both are considered sinful. You’re thinking, hey wait a minute, I’m not committing murder or adultery. Well, there are no levels of sin; it is what it is – sin!
I used to be a rebellious young woman, headstrong and quite self-centered. When my life choices got me into trouble, I always could find someone else to blame. My mother used to say, “I love you but you made your bed now you lie in it.” Oh, how I hated that statement!
I did not feel the presence of a loving God during those consequential times because I had offended Him (and my mother). I felt alone and abandoned. Mind you, I was a firm believer but lacked understanding. If we were to take a poll, I imagine we would find many in this situation.
I survived those times and what a wonderful life-lesson it was. Am I still rebellious? Yes, but I don’t get too far out there these days. I know that even in my moments of trying to be self-sufficient, He is present and waiting for me to turn back and run into His arms. His way is far more of an adventure than anything I could create in my own mind.
It does not appear to matter how far off the path we may have wandered, it is never too far to find our way home. He never gives up on any of us even when we are blatantly rebellious. As human beings, we all have our moments but hopefully, we see the benefit of sticking with His proven plan. Hear His words, put them into action and see what happens next!
Father God, thank You for Your Words. Help me to use them and not just read them. AMEN.