Obeying God

“King Zedekiah sent Jehucal the son of Shelemiah, and the priest Zephaniah the son of Maaseiah, to Jeremiah the prophet, saying, ‘Please pray to the Lord our God in our behalf.’”—Jeremiah 37:3 NASB

Jeremiah had delivered God’s Word: a warning that Jerusalem would be captured and God’s instructions that His people were to cooperate with their enemy, Babylon. It was not the message people expected or wanted to hear. Instead of acting on the message, King Zedekiah sent for Jeremiah and asked for a different word.

Jeremiah sought the Lord, but He just gave the same message. The king was not happy and accused Jeremiah of collaborating with the enemy. He was put in a dungeon. At the king’s request, Jeremiah sought God again, but His message did not change. This time Jeremiah was lowered into a cistern with no water.

A third time, Zedekiah called for Jeremiah. Again he sought God, but the message did not change. Jeremiah pleaded with the king to obey God, but he refused. When Babylon attacked Jerusalem, Jeremiah’s prophecies came true. Since Zedekiah had not obeyed, his people weren’t ready.

Many say they want God to guide and bless them but are not willing to do what He asks. They just want Him to confirm their desires.

Remember that God wants to bless and guide you, but this means believing His Word, obeying Him, and trusting Him. Be sure you have submitted your life to God and are not re-interpreting His Word to fit your desires. Commit yourself to do whatever He says, regardless of your preconceived ideas or what other people think.

Reflection Question: Have you surrendered your will to God? What are you holding back?