How can we ensure our actions align with God's will like Baruch's? A Snapshot of Baruch’s Obedience “So Baruch son of Neriah did everything Jeremiah the prophet had commanded him, reading the words of the LORD from the scroll in the house of the LORD.” (Jeremiah 36:8) Baruch’s assignment looked simple—read a scroll in the temple—but behind that act lay courage, humble submission, and wholehearted trust in God’s word. His example gives us a roadmap for bringing our own actions into line with God’s will. Core Qualities That Kept Baruch in Step with God • Immediate obedience • Respect for prophetic authority • Confidence that Scripture is true and powerful • Willingness to risk personal safety for God’s message • Faithfulness in a seemingly small task Practical Steps for Walking in God’s Will Today 1. Stay anchored in Scripture • “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth” (Joshua 1:8). • Daily reading keeps God’s desires before our eyes and guards our motives (Psalm 119:11). 2. Cultivate prompt obedience • “To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). • The longer we debate, the easier it is to drift. 3. Serve under God-given authority • Baruch listened to Jeremiah; we honor parents, pastors, and leaders unless they contradict Scripture (Hebrews 13:17). 4. Be faithful in small assignments • “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much” (Luke 16:10). • God often tests our hearts through ordinary duties. 5. Act with a God-ward mindset • “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). • This perspective turns routine tasks into worship. 6. Embrace courage over comfort • Baruch read a controversial message in a hostile environment. • “Be strong and courageous… for the LORD your God is with you” (Joshua 1:9). 7. Keep love for Christ at the center • “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word” (John 14:23). • Obedience flows naturally from affection for the Savior. When Opposition Rises • Expect resistance: Jeremiah’s scroll was sliced and burned (Jeremiah 36:23). • God preserves His purposes: He simply dictated the scroll again (Jeremiah 36:32). • Stand firm: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). A Closing Charge “Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—your spiritual service of worship” (Romans 12:1). Like Baruch, we align with God’s will by offering ourselves—mind, heart, and hands—to carry out His word exactly as He’s given it, trusting Him with the results. |
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