And now, O Israel, listen to the statutes and the rules that I am teaching you, and do them, that you may live, and go in and take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your fathers is giving you,” Deuteronomy 4:1
Listening and obeying are two crucial actions in the life of every believer. However, unless these are connected, the follower of Christ could possible live his or her life without success. Consider Moses directions to his people in the chapter before us:
Moses directs the people to never alter God’s commandments, Vs: 1-8
Listening and obeying are crucial to the people’s success in this point. Moses taught what he had heard and he has obeyed what he heard. This brought Moses into closeness with God. The same will be with each of us.
Moses directed the people to pass on God’s commandments, Vs: 9-14
Daily these people must listen and obey his commands, lest they forget them. As these commandments were in their hearts and minds the people would be able to pass the commandments along to their children.
Moses directed the people to not make idols, Vs: 15-31
As they listened and obeyed they would be able to spot and to steer away from idols. It is crucial that we listen and obey God so that we will know the one true God.
Moses directed the people to remember there is only one God, Vs: 32-40
Brothers and sisters these are great directions for the follower of Christ. However, the commandments will be wasted if we listen and do not obey!
Heavenly Father, teach us to both listen and obey. Give us success as we strive to listen and obey. Father open the ears of those we share with today.