Obedience - Walk Before Me
Pamela Bunn, Guest Writer
TODAY’S TREASURE
Abraham had first heard God’s promise of a son by Sarah 24 years prior. Was this walking and waiting command after 13 years of silence from God to be different from what he had been doing over the last quarter of his life? Could he actually be blameless after the debacle with Hagar and Ishmael? Would God's promise really come to pass? Was he worthy of this new name? Indeed, he had initially believed the Lord by faith, which God counted to him as righteousness. The call now was to do so anew, to continue walking before this One who hemmed him in and led him on to fulfill His plans, despite his foibles. Abraham fell on his face in awe and worshipful submission and remained attuned until the Lord God finished and left. He would receive and accept what God had counted and conveyed. (Genesis 12:1-4; 15:1-6; 16:2-6,15-16; Psalm 139:5)
When God issues a call, if we knew all that walking in obedience would entail - the sacrifice, temptations, conflicts, sorrows, dangers, and waiting- we might not step forward. But when God says walk, He means one step at a time, in stride with Him, attuned to His voice. This we can do only by faith that He is with us, He is good, and He knows the way. We keep on trusting He will direct us clearly, and bring to pass all He intends in and for us. (Job 23:10; Psalm 32:8; Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 30:21)
APPLICATION
Where has God called you and me to serve Him, or to step out in a new direction, a new trust? Do we tire of waiting for the fulfillment of a promise, resolution to a quandary, healing in a relationship, or of a long-raw wound? Are we tempted to give up walking, or loving, or forgiving, or persisting? When God is silent, are we familiar enough with His word to keep on in what we do know He’s already said, believing absolutely in its truth and power?
If we remain immersed in His word, and seize His promises backed by His impeccable character, He will give us the confidence and courage to walk before Him. Are we listening? Will we step out and on in faith?
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PRAYER
Father, keep me listening and walking that Your word be fulfilled.
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Sharon W. Betters is a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, pastor’s wife, and cofounder of MARKINC Ministries, where she is the Director of Resource Development. Sharon is the author of several books, including Treasures of Encouragement, Treasures in Darkness, and co-author with Susan Hunt of Aging with Grace. She is the co-host of the Help & Hope podcast and writes Daily Treasure, an online devotional.
Contact Sharon with comments or questions at dailytreasure@markinc.org.