Keep His commands and His commands are not burdensome.
Yesterday, I talked about airplane turbulence during the worst flight of my life.
I still remember how calm and composed the flight crew remained as they passed through the aisles, reminding us to stay in our seats with our seatbelts firmly fastened.
I could’ve resented them and said, “You’re trying to limit my freedom. I don’t want to sit in my seat, I want to walk around the plane.” Or “I don’t like wearing a seatbelt, it feels too restrictive.” But we all know that would’ve been dumb, because the flight crew’s instructions weren’t there to limit me—they were there to protect me.
Extreme turbulence can literally throw people against the ceiling of a plane and cause serious injury if they’re not buckled in. They made sure I was safely in my seat.
In the same way, God’s Word and His commands are not about controlling, limiting or restricting you. They’re there for your care and protection.
In fact, this is love for God: to keep His commands. And His commands are not burdensome. – 1 John 5:3
If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good of the land. – Isaiah 1:19 NIV
This is what I know: obedience can anchor me in a firm place, even when spiritual turbulence hits my life. When I choose to return to the things I know are right and true and live out that obedience, my life becomes more secure and stable.
Are there areas of obedience you struggle with? Are there instructions in God’s word that feel restrictive? Is there a part of you that just wants to break free and go against what you know is right?
Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You that Your Word exists to protect me. Help me to see the good in Your instructions and to obey them without defiance in my heart. Reveal to me any areas in my life in which I have been disobedient to Your Word so that I may repent. In Jesus’ name, amen.
