While watching sports (specifically the NFL), we have grown accustomed to instant replay and ref's replay reviews being part of the experience. We witness a play live and then we immediately watch it again with different angles and slow-motion to see what really happened.
Then, of course, some of the plays are challenged by coaches throughout the game and the refs determine if the call on the field is correct or not.
As the NFL continues to expand instant replay, there has been more controversy and debate on what the rules actually are. With all the different replay reviews, it gives more opportunities for us as fans to argue whether or not a player scored a touchdown or if there was actually pass interference. Our perspective on what the call should be is most likely based on how the decision benefits us and the team we’re rooting for.
We can watch the play unfold on instant replay and clearly see it’s not a touchdown, but then tell ourselves he got in because he’s on our team. Deep down we know the truth, but we yell out loud, “He’s in, he’s in.”
Trying to convince ourselves of something different than what we’re actually seeing also factors into our decisions of obedience in life. Deep down we know the truth, and are convicted to do what’s right, but how many times have we done what we think benefits us more at the moment?
We can read verses in the Bible that very clearly reveal God’s commands for our lives, but then try to convince ourselves that they don’t really apply to us.
Even though we see and know the truth, our response can be like hoping the ref’s call goes the way we want instead of what is actually right.
As followers of Jesus, we’re called to a life of obedience that requires us to seek truth and listen to God. It also means, however, that we do what He says and not the opposite of what we know to be right.
James shares this illustration in chapter 1 verses 22-25 (AMP):
“But prove yourselves doers of the Word , and not merely listeners , deluding yourselves .
“For if anyone only listens to the Word without obeying it, he is like a man who looks very carefully at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he immediately forgets what he looked like.
“But he who looks carefully into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and faithfully abides by it, not having become a listener who forgets but an active doer , he will be blessed and favored by God in what he does .”
Today, as we read God’s Word and sense His Spirit leading us throughout the day, let’s follow our convictions of truth instead of unsound reasoning that’s rooted in selfishness. Let’s realize obedience leads to freedom, blessings, and favor.
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for my disobedience and not following my convictions. I pray I would seek the truth that is rooted in Your Word and do what it says. Thank you for Your grace. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen. Discussion Questions for PACKS:
What are some areas of the Bible you struggle with obeying because you don't think they benefit you?
Why is it so important to focus on truth instead of preferences or personal motives?
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