3:17 – Listen AND Follow

#faithbites #faithjourney listen

I was walking the halls of my daughter’s school and saw the scripture verse of the year: Matthew 7:24 – “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock.”

While I’ve seen this picture over and over again, today something new popped out – “Listen AND Follow”.

We tell our children things all the time and it feels like in one ear and out the other. When I ask if they listened, they say yes. What I forget to ask is if they will follow it. That’s a whole new question.

You are listening to God’s directions, but are you going to act on it?

Scripture

• But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. – James 1:22
• He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? – Micah 6:8

Reflection

We should know God’s commands (listening) and act on them (following). God has taught us how to pass the test and follow him. It’s not easy but if we just listen and don’t act, we are deceiving ourselves.

Remember, salvation isnt achieved through works. The reason we listen and follow isnt for salvation but for a better life here.

Just like I tell my kids. Eventually you will do what I ask, why not do it in the beginning and save yourself the hassle.

Challenge

You all are listening to God. That’s the first step. Challenge yourself to act on it. Commit random acts of kindness. Show love. Help someone. Challenge someone else. Be kind. All of these are ways to follow Jesus.

Prayer

Lord, you are generous with your word and instruction. Help us take your word and turn it into action. Give us your strength and dedication to make following you as important as listening to your word. We love you and give you the glory. Amen.