“But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” – James 1:22 (HCSB)
God’s voice requires a response. We can hear Him clearly and still choose our own way. The Bible gives us sobering examples of people who heard God’s instructions but discovered that disobedience always carries consequences.
God commanded Adam and Eve not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, yet they disobeyed (Genesis 2:16-17; 3:6). Their sin brought shame, broken fellowship with God, and separation from the garden (Genesis 3:23-24). That disobedience affects generations today.
Saul was instructed to destroy the Amalekites completely, but he spared King Agag and the best animals (1st Samuel 15:1-9). When confronted, he made excuses. Samuel declared, “…to obey is better than sacrifice…” (1st Samuel 15:22, HCSB). Saul’s “rejection” of God’s word (disobedience) cost him his kingdom and God’s favour as king (1st Samuel 15:23, 26).
Jonah was told to go to Nineveh, but he ran in the opposite direction (Jonah 1:1-3). His disobedience brought a violent storm that endangered everyone aboard the ship he sailed on. Jonah eventually found himself in the belly of a great fish (Jonah 1:15-17). His rebellion did not affect only him; others were caught in its consequences.
In the New Testament, the rich young ruler heard Jesus’ invitation to surrender everything and follow Him, but he walked away sorrowfully because his possessions meant more to him than following Jesus (Matthew 19:21-22). He missed the opportunity to follow Jesus because he was unwilling to let go of what controlled his heart.
These accounts remind us that disobedience or rejection is never without a cost. Sometimes the consequences are immediate; sometimes they unfold slowly. Disobedience can cost us peace, opportunities, relationships, spiritual growth, the joy of walking closely with God, and even eternal life.
Perhaps God has already spoken to you. What will you do? Remember, temporary comfort can bring about lasting regret.
Prayer
Lord, give me a heart that listens and obeys. Help me recognise the areas where I have resisted Your voice. Forgive my disobedience and give me courage to follow You, even when obedience is difficult or costly. May I never become so comfortable hearing Your Word that I refuse to act on it. Help me to honour Your word by saying “Yes, Lord” and meaning it, in Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Read: Joshua 5:6; Romans 5:19
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 107:10-22; Galatians 1; Isaiah 33; Isaiah 34; Isaiah 35