Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24

This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not
burdensome. -1 James 5:3

I can’t get Steven to turn off the light when he leaves his bedroom. It’s
frustrating to have to tell him time after time to hit the switch on the way out.

When I consider the situation, I come to these conclusions: Steve is able to turn off
the light. I’ve instructed him to do so. He knows it’s a good idea. But he just
can’t seem to get the habit of hitting that switch.

Sounds a bit like most of us, doesn’t it? Think of the things God has told us in
the Bible that we should do. For example, "Rejoice always" (1 Th. 5:16). We are
able to rejoice. We’ve been instructed to demonstrate the joy of the Lord. We know
it’s a good idea. But we can’t seem to make it a habit.

Just as Steven needs to train himself to flick that switch each time he leaves his
room, so we need to train ourselves to give God thanks, praise, and honor in every
situation.

Think of some of God’s other specific commands: Trust in the Lord (Prov. 3:5). Be
filled with the Spirit (Eph. 5:18). Pray without ceasing (1 Th. 5:17). Be holy because He
is holy (1 Pet. 1:15-16).

Are we taking God’s commands seriously? Are we relying on Him for the ability to
do what He wants us to do?

Let’s train ourselves to "hit the switch." J. David Branon

Obedient to the Lord’s direction,

Doing what His Word commands,

I joyfully will follow Jesus

Willingly with heart and hands. -Hess

SERVANTS OF CHRIST

MUST BE MASTERS OF THEMSELVES.

OUR DAILY BREAD, Copyright 1999 by Radio Bible Class, Grand Rapids,Michigan. Used by
permission.

• Geo –

Edwardsburg, MI