Obedience

At God’s direction, Jeremiah asked the Rechabites to drink some wine. It seemed like an innocent request, but Jeremiah found out that, for generations, this family had followed the direction of their ancestor, Jonadab, to not drink wine. Even though directed by a prophet, they still refused to drink.

God used the example of this family to illustrate what was wrong with His people. They wouldn’t listen or obey, though He had provided for them, protected them, given them His Word, warned them, and spoken to them “again and again.”

God wondered why this disobedient generation didn’t have the same kind of commitment and dedication as the Rechabites. Why wouldn’t they obey Him? Sadly, their continuing disobedience meant that judgment was inevitable. Why? God says, “I spoke to them, but they did not listen; I called to them, but they did not answer.”

In contrast, God promised continued blessings on the Rechabites. He commends them for being an obedient people: “You have obeyed the command of your forefather Jonadab and have followed all his instructions and have done everything he ordered.”

The Bible makes it clear that God honors obedience. Obedience breeds trust and peace, order and stability, wisdom and favor. Those who are characterized by obedience put themselves in a position to experience more of His blessings. Yet, sadly, many people ignore these warnings from Scripture. Like the people in Jeremiah’s time, they refuse to listen and obey.

Today, think about the concern, obedience, and faithfulness shown by the Rechabites! Make sure that you’re living according to God’s Word and not giving in to compromise. Don’t just hear the Word: Do it! Seek to be faithful in your relationships with other people and with God.