Based on “Under HIS Influence - Yes, Lord” by Pastor Mark Balmer; 10/3-4/09,
Message #MB391; Daily Devotional #1 - “Firm Foundation”
Preparing the Soil (Introduction): "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do what I tell you? Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great." (Luke 6:46-49, ESV) “Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him.” Charles Stanley
Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): We in Florida, on occasion, get a glimpse at the destruction nature can cause on our manmade structures. Who hasn’t watched the lone news reporter tossed about by hurricane force winds while trees or cars or houses fly thorough the air in the background? Hurricanes bring a sober reminder of our potential vulnerability. After the devastation of Hurricane Andrew, the state of Florida increased the standards by which houses were to be built. The intent was to construct homes to be more wind resistant and with firmer foundations. Suppose you were building your own house and in an effort to save money and time decided not to heed the hurricane building code? You might get away with it initially. But what happens when the next Cat 3 comes across the Space Coast? Your lack of “obedience” to the code will result in the loss of your house and perhaps even the loss of your life.
Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): Jesus gives us a similar scenario in regard to obeying His Word. Obedience leads to life with a firm foundation. When the storms and winds blow we don’t have to worry, if we are actively following Jesus. He will sustain us because of our faith in Him. He promises us that. We can believe His Word. Following Jesus means saying, “Yes,” to Him and sometimes, “No,” to us. Too often we let our feelings determine our obedience: “If I feel like studying my Bible,” or “If I feel like giving my tithe.” I’m glad Jesus didn’t ask Himself if He felt like going to the cross. I suspect the answer would have been a very loud, “No!” If our feelings are preventing us from walking in obedience, next time don’t give them a vote. Just say, “Yes, Lord,” and trust Him with all the consequences. As our lives become more centered on God and His Word, as we abide in Him, obedience will become a natural outgrowth of the love relationship we are building. We obey because we love, and we love because He first loved us.
Cultivating (Additional Reading): 1 John 4:19; 1 John 5:1-5; Romans 6:16
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