“Apply your heart to instructions, and your ears to words of knowledge” (Proverbs 23:12). This verse of scripture suggest that we listen and pursue wisdom and instructions. If we were to do so, life might be just a little more comfortable, less stressful and less challenging.
Why is it so difficult for people to follow simple instructions and directions? Many people have gotten into serious trouble because they did not follow simple instructions given in writing or in person. Regardless of what our reasons may be for neglect in this area, may I remind you that it can cause great disdain, unnecessary conflict and pain.
Do you ever get the feeling that we are living in a season when folk just do what they want to do and how they want to do it? There is that feeling that no one can tell them what to do or how to do it. Sometimes instructions are just a matter of making life simple and easier for everyone. Other times it may be simply that there is no regard or respect for the person or agency issuing the instructions or directives.
I would think that all of us at some point and time have made the dreadful mistake of attempting to assemble a piece of furniture, toys, etc., while ignoring the instructions. The first attempt is a failure because we use the visual on the outside of the box rather than the instructions on the inside. The letters on the box may read, “Read Instructions Carefully,” yet we ignore them and attempt to take a shortcut. After the first attempt we may have left over parts and wonder why. Life can be less stressful when we follow the prescribed directions.
It seems as if our children and grandchildren are focusing more on TikTok and other social media platforms, rather than to parents. Children must be taught to follow simple instructions at an early age if they are going to live a productive life. When our children follow our instructions as they mature and grow older, it is our hope that they will avoid some of the traps in life set by the devil. Ephesians 6:2-3 tells us: “Honor your father and mother- which is the first commandment with a promise- so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on earth.”
If you are a cook (chef) and depend on recipes, it is important that the recipe is adhered to, otherwise the meal may end up being a disaster. The recipe can be very simple and to the point, but too often we alter the recipe in hopes that the dish will be better than the recommendation. Have there been times you started out baking a cake in hopes of it being moist, but because you did not use the prescribed amount of butter, you end up with a flat cake that resembles a big fat cookie?
Most folk, young and old, have become accustomed to using a GPS. The GPS is designed to give us specific instructions, but for some reason we deviate and find ourselves in unfamiliar territory. We shortchange ourselves because we thought we knew a shorter route.
The most important instructions for mankind and womankind to follow are found in the Bible. The Bible is a book filled with instructions we are to live in accordance with. Too often we are more interested in knowing a passage of scripture than living it out. Just imagine how much better the world would be if everyone adhered and lived according to the God- given instructions in the good Book, the Bible.
The instructions from God tells us what to do to help us ‘Not’ go the wrong way. The Bible says, “He is the way of life that keepeth instruction; but he that refuseth reproof erreth.” Proverbs 10:17
We may recall that God gave commandments to Israel, including the Ten Commandments, to establish a moral and ethical framework for their nation. I bring this matte to our attention to ask the question, what happened? For ethical and moral behaviors seem to carry very little weight these days.
If the world is going to be a better place for all of us, let’s embrace the commands and statutes of God.
Just my thoughts!
Robert Earl Slade, Pastor
