Introductory Thoughts
The Bible repeatedly addresses the outcomes of obedience and disobedience. It reveals that blessings follow obedience and curses follow disobedience. This truth was plainly explained to the children of Israel on several occasions. In fact, the Bible lists the curses that follow disobedience (Deuteronomy 28:15-44). The curses range from personal judgment to national judgment, but the obvious fact was that disobedience withheld blessings. For instance, disobedience drove Adam and Eve from the garden in Eden (Genesis 3:22-24). Saul's disobedience cost him his kingdom (1 Samuel 28:18). Moses' disobedience meant that he could not enter into the land of promise (Numbers 20:12). The consequences of disobedience may differ today, but every act of disobedience has negative consequences.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Disobedience brings punishment. King David was one of Israel's greatest kings but he too disobeyed God's rules. As a result, he lost three children and his family did not get along very well. We can all learn from the lesson of king David. It's always better to obey.
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(For everyone): What kind of punishments can a child receive for disobeying his parents? What could happen to an employee who does not obey his boss? What could happen to a citizen who does not obey the laws of the land?
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Do you enjoy the blessings of God? Would you rather experience the blessings of obedience or the curses of disobedience?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to help you grasp the dire consequences of disobedience.
- Ask the Lord to help you see the importance of obeying.
Song
LORD, IF THINE EYES SURVEY OUR FAULTS
