From Intentions to Actions: The Path to True Blessings

Verse: Exodus 9:27 - "Then Pharaoh sent and called Moses, and said unto him, I have sinned against the Lord your God, and against you."

In Exodus 9:27, Pharaoh's words seem to be a genuine confession, but his actions tell a different story. He acknowledges God's sovereignty, recognizes his own wrongdoing, and admits his offense against both God and Moses. Yet, his heart remains hardened, refusing to submit to God's will.

Believing and confessing what God actually is – a loving, just, and holy God – will not bring blessings unless we obey in real-time. Our knowledge of God's character demands a response of obedience. Even Satan knows and believes what God is, but his knowledge does not lead to obedience or transformation.

Similarly, calling Jesus "Lord, Lord" and identifying with certain labels will not produce blessings unless we bring obedience. Matthew 7:21 warns that not everyone who says "Lord, Lord" shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of God's Father in heaven. Our profession of faith must be backed by actions.

Knowing theology accurately can even incur more punishment unless we obey. James 4:17 says that to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. Our understanding of God's Word should compel us to live a life of obedience.

Realizing Jesus as Lord is the foundation of our faith, but unless we give ourselves to obey Him who has sent Him, nothing will go well. Our faith must be demonstrated through a holy life, pleasing to God. 1 John 3:10 reminds us that in this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God.

Surrendering our will to God's will is essential for obedience. Living according to biblical principles is crucial for our faith to be demonstrated through actions. Loving and serving others is a vital aspect of obedience. Seeking holiness and righteousness is a continuous process for those who desire to obey God. Trusting God's sovereignty and provision is fundamental for our obedience to be complete.

We must beware of idolatry, even in subtle forms. For example, when we say "We are true Evangelicals" and prioritize our identity and pride in that label, we can unknowingly elevate it to a position of idolatry. We may start to prioritize our reputation over our character, focus on appearances rather than true spiritual growth, exclude or judge those who don't fit our label, and neglect our relationship with God in favor of our affiliation with the label.

Furthermore, many people feel more comfortable and even overwhelmed with excitement when hearing the term "Evangelical" than when hearing the name of God. This is a clear indication of idolatry, where our allegiance and devotion are misplaced. We should be more awestruck and humbled by the mention of God's name than by any label or affiliation.

God seeks those who will follow Him wholeheartedly, not just in word but in deed. As Psalm 119:30 says, "I have chosen the way of truth; Your judgments I have laid before me." Let us examine our lives, ensuring our actions align with our profession of faith.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Help us transition from intentions to actions, from confession to obedience. May our faith be demonstrated through a holy life, pleasing to You. Give us the strength to surrender to Your will, living a life that reflects Your transformative power.

Amen.