The Rewards of Simple Obedience
I read about a canine trainer, Tina Zimmerman, who serves wounded veterans and first responders by way of giving them fully trained, obedient dogs to assist them. The dogs learn discipline and obedience and truly become “man’s best friend”. I saw a video of Tina expressing the beautiful relationship between a loving handler and a faithful dog and how it reminds her of God’s love and care for us as He blesses our obedience without exception.
Rewards are the bonuses of life. Animals are treated by their owner or trainer for listening to and obeying instructions. And they are given to adults or children for a job well done, whether it is on the playing field, good grades, or accomplishments on the job.
I know that I am living in the rewards and favor of God because of learning to obey God. I don’t always get it right, but I am proof positive of the blessings when I do. Simple obedience. Why oh why does us take us so long to listen to God through His Word, His still small voice and His gentle nudges? Firsthand experience here. Deciding to obey depends on our love relationship with God and how we honor and prize His wisdom.
Jesus set the example for us. He was an obedient Son Who trusted His Heavenly Father. Proof of that is found when He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane prior to his betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection three days later. Luke 22:42 is Jesus’ prayer: “Father, if it is Your will, remove this cup from Me; nevertheless, not my will but yours, be done.” What an example of a wrenching obedience decision, but it yielded the reward of deliverance from sin and death for all generations.
I know the consequences of ignoring God’s wisdom and biblical instructions. Simple obedience is so much better. It comes with rewards — even “great” rewards. Psalm 19:11 says “God’s commands are a warning to those who hear them; there is great reward for those who obey them.” And, simple obedience has even more benefits and rewards: a long life and great peace. Proverbs 3:1-2 says: “My son (or daughter) do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.” And, Psalm 119:165 says: “Those who love (obey) your law have great peace and do not stumble.”
Just imagine how many more blessings would be ours if we simply obeyed God the first time He speaks to us? The dogs who have learned to obey their owners or trainers are given treats for their obedience. But, more importantly, they are loved, given comfort peace and joy. They have learned the rewards of simple obedience. How much more does God love us and desires to bless us with His best? Shouldn’t we obey God’s voice to receive His greatest blessings? Life will always have its ups and downs, but there is no safer place than to be in the center of God’s will. How do we stay there? Through simple obedience.