In our childhood days we needed much correction, and our fathers and mothers did serve us in that respect. We had to learn what would hurt us and what would serve us well. Children had to be warned not to go on the road where automobiles might strike them and injure or even kill them; what berries should not be eaten for they were poisonous; when not to touch this object that can be burning hot, and will not be safe to touch for quite some time.
In Hebrews 12:9 we read, "Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits and live?"Clearly a distinction is made between fathers. Both sought our good. Our fleshly fathers were concerned about our fleshly safety, and our heavenly Father is concerned about our spiritual good. He is called Father of spirits, because he brought into being our spiritual life.
What counts is what our heavenly Father keeps us from as far as our spiritual life is concerned. To be kept where our physical life is safe will not keep us alive forever. But to be kept where our spiritual life is not injured and destroyed assures us of everlasting blessedness. This does not mean that we must not listen to our earthy fathers. It means that our spiritual life is the important thing about which we should be concerned.
As Jesus taught us, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matt. 6:33 ). Our spiritual life is what counts. To seek material things which will cut us off from spiritual blessings is sheer folly. Subjection to our heavenly Father will assure us of heavenly blessings.
Are not these heavenly blessings what you desire? Are you interested in entering the kingdom of God? Then live in subjection to God Whose is the kingdom, the power, and the glory for ever.
Read: Matthew 6:24-34
Through the Bible in One Year
Read today:
Ezra 10:1-44
I Corinthians 6:1-20
Psalm 31:9-18
Proverbs 21:3
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Quote for Reflection:
Matthew Henry on Nehemiah 4: "The hindering of good work is that which bad men aim at and promise themselves; but good work is God’s work, and it shall prosper."
Additional Info
- Date: 10-August
