Refined: Heart Activation, Day Two

“I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and will give them all these lands, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because Abraham obeyed me and did everything I required of him, keeping my commands, my decrees and my instructions.“

Genesis 26:4-5

Why do we have rules at all? Why is discipline important? Think back to when you were a kid: Your parents gave you rules to keep you safe, well-educated, clean, and set you up for success as an adult. As a kid, this felt “so unfair!!” As Christians, we can feel the same way towards God’s rules for holy living.

God doesn’t do this to take away my “fun.” He does it as a wise parent who sees a much bigger picture. God asks us to control ourselves according to His rules because He wants what is best for us. And, in the case of Abraham, our promises are directly linked with our obedience to these rules. “…because Abraham obeyed me and did everything I required of him…” 

Let’s Pray:

1.) Imagine yourself as the child and God as the parent. How have you felt God has treated you unfairly or been overbearing? Confess those to Him. 

2.) Pray and ask God, “Are these rules that feel opressive ones I made up, or ones you have given me?” Ask for wisdom to tell the difference between man-made rules and God-ordained rules.

3.) Look up Bible verses about promises God has given to all Christians. Sit quietly and ask God what promises He has for you individually. (Just be patient if you cannot hear Him right away. It may take time.)