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1999-02-03 - Hearing God's
Callings
Part 4, Authoritative Commands
Genesis 35:1 (NCV) God said to Jacob, "Go to the city
of Bethel and live there.
My three kids are 13, 11 and 6. I have two girls and the youngest is a boy.
There is one lesson that I am continuing to learn as a parent, particularly
with my teenager: Kids need clear directions and boundaries.Deep down they
like authoritative commands and well-defined expectations. The more specific
I am in dealing with my kids, the more they respond in a positive manner.
For example, if I say, "after dinner tonight I would really like for you
to do your homework, take a shower, if you have time clean your room and
then you can play some," thirty minutes later I am repeating myself over
and over again for them to do what I have asked. Finally, when I specifically
state my command to them, "you will do your homework now, then take a shower,
and be in bed at 9:00 sharp," then they hop to it.
When my commands are unclear, they are unsure of what to do. But when they
are very clear and spoken with authority, they understand and follow directions.
(Most of the time ; ) )
Throughout the Bible we read about God's callings for His people.
His command to Jacob is very clear: He says "go." God does not
say, "hey Jacob, if you feel like it, if you think you can, if you don't
mind, if you have the time, how about going to Bethel and live there?" God
says "go!"
Feeling unclear and uncertain about a decision in your life? Do you think
God is calling you to make a change or improve what you are currently doing
and continue as you are? Ask yourself, "am I receiving an authoritative command
from God? Is it clear?" If not, then continue praying about your situation.
Ask God for a clear command. If what you think is a calling is unclear and
murky, then I would seriously question where the "calling" is coming from.
True callings from God are authoritative commands. Our God is not a God
of ambiguity or confusion; He is a powerful, loving and authoritative God.
1 Corinthians 14:33 (NCV) God is not a God of confusion
but a God of peace.
Lord, You are the Father and we are the sons and daughters,
and help us to listen and hear your clear commands in our lives. Give us
the strength, wisdom and courage to follow Your commands. In Jesus' name,
Amen.
David
david@masseyre.com
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