In what ways can we apply Ahimaaz's example of obedience in our lives? Setting the Scene “Then the king said, ‘Step aside and stand here.’ So he stepped aside and stood still.” (2 Samuel 18:30) Ahimaaz had just begged to run with news of Absalom’s defeat. David, now king and commander, tells him to wait. Without argument, delay, or grumbling, Ahimaaz obeys. What Makes His Obedience Stand Out? • Immediate—no “Why?” or “But I want to…” • Complete—he both turns aside and remains still. • Respectful—he honors the authority God placed over him. • Trusting—he obeys without knowing how long he will wait or what will happen next. Scripture Echoes of the Same Heart • Children to parents: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” (Ephesians 6:1) • Believers to governing leaders: “There is no authority except from God… Therefore whoever resists the authority resists what God has appointed.” (Romans 13:1-2) • Church members to shepherds: “Obey your leaders and submit to them.” (Hebrews 13:17) • All of us to the Lord: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” (1 Samuel 15:22) Where We Can Walk Like Ahimaaz Today 1. Home • Respond promptly to parental direction. • Model respect in tone and body language. 2. Workplace • Carry out tasks exactly as assigned. • Accept correction without defensiveness (Colossians 3:22-23). 3. Church • Follow biblically sound guidance from pastors and elders. • Support decisions even when our preference differs. 4. Community & Government • Pay taxes, follow laws, honor officials (1 Peter 2:13-17). • Pray for leaders rather than complain (1 Timothy 2:1-2). 5. Personal Walk with God • Act on the clear commands of Scripture immediately. • Wait when He says “wait,” trusting His timing (Psalm 27:14; Isaiah 40:31). Waiting Well: Lessons from “He Stood Still” • Stillness is obedience, not inactivity—God often prepares us in the pause. • Silence guards against premature or harmful words (Proverbs 10:19). • Patience proves trust in God’s sovereignty (Psalm 46:10). Obedience Brings Blessing • “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (Luke 11:28) A Simple Weekly Checklist □ Did I obey the first time I was asked? □ Did I honor authority in my attitude as well as my actions? □ Did I wait quietly when God or others said, “Not yet”? □ Did I trust that God sees and rewards unseen obedience? Takeaway Ahimaaz shows us that real obedience is swift, thorough, respectful, and trusting—even when it means standing still. Live it out, and watch God work through your willing heart. |
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