Vol. 3, No. 2 (February 5, 2000)

What is obedience? My dictionary defines an obedient person this way: “complying with or conforming to a command, restraint, etc.; dutiful. Spiritual jurisdiction or control; also, an area or group of people under such jurisdiction.”

Obedience for many is a touchy issue. It is an emotionally charged word, one that brings back memories of things done out of rebellion and a subsequent sadness. Obedience is a hard word: sometimes there were no choices given, only an expectation to do what was told.

Looking at Proverbs 8: 32-36, the obedience that God expects of us is a different kind. It might still be difficult but there are promises of blessings attached to our obedience in our willingness to do what He asks. “[B]lessed are those who keep my ways” (Proverbs 8:32).

When we think of God as a loving Father who wants only the best for us, how could we think that He would ever ask anything of us that would be harmful? Does that mean that everything asked will be easy, though? Of course not. Ultimately our obedience will cause us to grow, becoming more loving and Godly people. Our hearts will change to become more like His heart: a heart full of compassion and strength.

“Blessed is the one who listens to Me, watches daily at My doors, waiting in My doorway" (verse 34). The image this evokes is one of a stalker -- someone who is always watching to see when a person comes in or out. He watches what the person is doing and sees every move he makes. The purpose is to find out more about the habits and the nature of the person being watched.

When we stalk God, we are blessed! We see how He loves His people; we are filled with awe and wonder at His love of the world. We listen to His words and just by hearing them, we come to use them ourselves. We see lives changed, those who have become people of service. We learn when we serve those around us, we are given even more.

“For whoever finds Me finds life, and receives favor from the Lord” (verse 35). Have you found Him? Have you “stalked” Him lately, to discover what He is like and how He is calling you to serve and share His blessings with your loved ones and friends? You can become a blessing to others through your “willing obedience” to Him.

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