A Test of Obedience
Most parents would agree that the most common objective they strive to foster in their children is their obedience. Why so? Because obedience is directly related to their level of maturity and trust.
For instance, my daughter whose twelve will often ask me for my credit card so that she can grab ice cream with her friends. She has proven on multiple occasion to be obedient in that area, therefore I have no doubt she will behave as expected. As conditions change, and her obedience remains constant, I begin to entrust her more and more with everything that I have.
In the same way, God the father wants to foster obedience in us as children. He observes for our ability to remain obedient under various conditions. The more obedient we prove ourselves to be, the more he can trust us with the riches of his kingdom.
In fact, God often orchestrates a series of tests (trials), to test our obedience. And the tests may become more difficult and challenging with time. His ultimate goal is never to hurt us but to foster obedience even under the most challenging circumstances, so that he can later entrust us with the tasks he has prepared for us.
Remember how the LORD your God led you through the wilderness… testing you… to find out whether or not you would obey his commands. (Deut. 8:2 NLT)
Old Testament Joseph is prime example of this. God had a plan and purpose for Joseph that could only be accomplished with his unquestionable obedience. Therefore, he underwent a series of tests that “tested for” his obedience. His circumstances (the tests) became harder and harder with time. As if God was saying, “Joseph you were obedient under this condition, but will you remain obedient when your conditions worsen?
Just prior to Joseph’s promotion, Joseph was under the harshest of circumstances. He was wrongfully accused and imprisoned. Once again, God tested his devotion. Joseph came forth obedient therefore was found ready for the position God had for him.
His feet were hurt with fetters; his neck was put in a collar of iron;
…and the word of the Lord tried him.
The king sent and loosed him;…and let him go free.
He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance:
to instruct his princes as he pleased and teach his elders wisdom. ( Ps.105:18-22)
Supporting Text
Even though Jesus was God’s Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered. (Heb. 5:8 NLT)
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