How Can We Make Our Days Count Before Jehovah?- Learn Obedience

Learn Obedience

Moses was another man of faith who recognized his dependence on God.  Like David, Moses could see that life is filled with trouble.  He therefore petitioned God to show him 'how to count his days in such a way as to bring in a heart of wisdom.'  (Psalm 90:10-12) A heart of wisdom would come only from learning and living in accord with Jehovah's laws and principles.  Moses knew this and subsequently endeavored to impress that vital truth upon the nation of Israel by repeating God's laws and regulations to them prior to their taking possession of the Promised Land.  Any human king whom Jehovah would later choose to rule over Israel was to write for himself a copy of the Law and read in it all the days of his life.  Why?  In order that he  might learn to fear God.  This would be a test of a king's obedience.  It would protect him from exalting his heart above his brothers and would also lengthen his days upon his kingdom.  (Deuteronomy 17:18-20)  This promise was reiterated when Jehovah said to David's son Solomon:  "If you will walk in my ways by keeping my regulations and my commandments, just as David you father walked, I will also lengthen your days." - 1 Kings 3:10-14.

Obedience is a serious matter with God.  If we were to trivialize certain aspects of Jehovah's requirements and commands as if unimportant, he would surely take notice of such an attitude.  (Proverbs 15:3)  Knowing this should move us to maintain a high regard for all of Jehovah's divine directives, even though doing so may not always be easy.  Satan does all he can to "cut across our path" as we strive to heed God's laws and commands. -1 Thessalonians 2:18.

It is particularly important to comply with the Scriptural counsel to meet together for worship and fellowship.  (Deuteronomy 31:12, 13; Hebrews 10:24, 25)  So we do well to ask ourselves:  "Do I have the determination and persistence necessary to do what is really worthwhile? To neglect association and instruction at Christian meetings for the sake of trying to ensure financial security would weaken our relationship with Jehovah.  The apostle Paul wrote:  "Let your manner of life be free of the love of money, while you are content with  the present things.  For [Jehovah] has said: 'I will by no means forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5) Willing obedience to Jehovah's commands shows implicit trust that he will care for us.

Jesus learned obedience and benefited.  So can we.  (Hebrews 5:8)  The more we cultivate obedience, the more readily it will come, even in little things.  True, because of our integrity, we may have to cope with unpleasant  and even harsh treatment from others.  Especially may this be so in the workplace, at school, or in a   religiously divided household.  Yet, we find comfort in the declaration made to the Israelites that if they 'loved Jehovah by listening to his voice and by sticking to him, he would be their life and the length of their days.'  (Deuteronomy 30:20) This same promise is held out to us.

Next time: Use Time Wisely

The Watchtower, 2002