Jesus: “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.” Matthew 7:24-27 NLT
Jesus is the voice to follow. He Himself said that the one who follows His voice (His teaching) is wise. Obeying His voice is a daily choice to follow His lead and trust His heart. There are blessings that only come from hearing and obeying, blessings that can be received in no other way.
There is the blessing of a firm foundation. We are certain to encounter storms in life, storms that threaten to collapse the average house. But when we follow the voice of Jesus, we have a solid foundation that will keep us strong in the storm .When we not only hear His Word but obey it, we have stability and security, no matter what the challenge.
There is the blessing of a definite and strong relationship with God. You know how it is in your personal human relationships – when we take steps of love and trust in the other person, the bond between us is strengthened. Intimacy grows. The same is true when we listen for God’s voice and quickly obey. Our relationship with God becomes more vital and strong.
There is the blessing of knowing God’s will. God assures us that when we listen with a commitment to obey, we will know that we are in the will of God for us. He will direct our steps.
There is peace in trusting that our needs will all be met. He said when He is our foundation, when His voice is the one we desire and obey, He will make certain that all of our needs are met. Matthew 6:33 NLT records the promise of Jesus: “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”
True blessing comes from actively following and obeying the voice of our King. It’s the wisest, best, and most fulfilling daily choice we can make.
- Jesus, I am so grateful for the gift of Your voice and the promise of blessing that comes from listening and obeying. Help me build a firm foundation by not just hearing but also prioritizing quick obedience. I want to build a life that is committed to obey You with joy, even when it is hard. I want to live on the foundation that comes from listening, trusting, and living in Your truth. Amen.