"Annoying Commands"

“Annoying Commands”

I recently read Craig Groeschel’s 2010 book, The Christian Atheist, given to me by a friend about two years ago. Its subtitle, “Believing in God but Living as if He Doesn’t Exist”, expresses the sad truth that I don’t always put my faith into everyday practice. It covers such topics as lack of forgiveness, questioning God’s “fairness”, trusting in money more than in Him, worry and other areas to which God has spoken but I’ve ignored or haven’t heard clearly. It’d make a great small group study—I plan to suggest it to the one Karen and I are part of soon.

In his chapter on forgiveness Groeschel describes God’s directive to forgive as “…one of Jesus’ annoying commands”. (I’ve dubbed this elsewhere as “those things I wish weren’t found in the Bible”.) Why do I see them this way? Probably because they’re contrary to my human (read sinful) nature. But God has made it clear that He expects my obedience whether or not I approve (“Be sure to keep the commands of the Lord your God and the stipulations and decrees he has given you.”—Deuteronomy 6:17). And “His divine power has given (me) everything (I) need for life and godliness through (my) knowledge of him….” (2 Peter 1:3).

 

*”Be ready to forgive others as God for Christ’s sake has forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32, Phillips).

*”…Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:44-45, NLT).

*”Make the Master proud of you by being good citizens. Respect the authorities, whatever their level; they are God’s emissaries for keeping order.” (1 Peter 2:13-14, TM).

*”…The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him.” (Habakkuk 2:20); “Speak, for your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:10).

I may view taking God’s commands seriously as difficult and confining but Jesus’ friend says just the opposite (“…{God’s} commands are not burdensome….”—1 John 5:3). And they have great benefit. In preparation for leadership of His people God told Joshua, “…Be careful to do everything written in (the Book of the Law). Then you will be prosperous and successful.” (Joshua 1:8, emphasis added), So I’m praying I’ll heed His commands, even the “annoying” ones, to honor Him and make Him look good.

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan