Obedience Vs. Sin, Blessing Vs. Consequence

Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming, You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. (Colossians 3:5-8 NIV)

Creation

Paul’s letter to the church in Colosse could be a letter written today. The world created in six days as God rested on the seventh, was created in perfection. He called it good, we would see it as perfect. God’s image created in Adam and Eve, began a learning curve for obedience.

Deception

Along came the serpent, craftier than any wild animal. Knowing Adam and Eve were not allowed to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, he directed Eve’s eyes to the eye pleasing fruit. Temptation set in and mind games were introduced. Did God really say you cannot eat from all these trees? Gaining wisdom did sound intriguing to Eve. However, satan’s scheme was deception. How many times have we been willing to shun obedience to find out- indulgence is not worth it at all. Then complicated consequences like we face today all because Eve ate the forbidden fruit and Lucifer became filled with pride.

Obedience

Obedience is meant to keep us safe. Once we experience salvation, we enter a covenant with Jesus Christ. Our earthly nature transforms over time to one who desires holiness. Quite the spectrum from beginning of salvation to Christian maturity. It’s interesting how many sins listed above are the exact ones being justified. Yet, scripture states these are cause for God’s wrath. Satan’s deceptions lure eyes to see lusciousness of sin, not the dark side. The dark side will be his eternal destination. Wages of sin is death, he wants to take as many as he can with him.

Blessings

God promises to always make a way out of temptation. We start by learning God’s Word, taking captive contrary thoughts, and removing ourselves from temptation. Consequences are costly. Obedience to God’s commands lead to abundant life. The direct line to God so many wish they had, depends upon each individual. Ready for blessings? Consider obedience- this could be an answer to prayer.

Be encouraged!