What steps can we take to prioritize God's word over human commands today? Setting the Scene: 2 Kings 1:5 “When the messengers returned to the king, he asked them, ‘Why have you returned?’” Ahaziah had ordered his men to seek answers from Baal-zebub, yet Elijah’s word from the LORD sent them straight back. Their sudden U-turn reminds us that God’s voice overrides every human directive. Key Lesson from the Messengers’ Detour • Human commands can sound urgent, but God’s revealed word is final. • When Scripture speaks, believers stop, turn around, and adjust course—even if a king has spoken. • The accuracy and literalness of God’s word give it unquestioned authority in every generation. Steps to Put God’s Word First Today 1. Receive the Word Daily • Schedule unhurried reading time; treat it as a non-negotiable appointment. • Psalm 119:11 — “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” 2. Filter Every Decision Through Scripture • Before acting, ask, “Where does God address this?” then search His word. • Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” 3. Obey Even When It Collides with Human Opinion • Acts 5:29 — “We must obey God rather than men.” • Stand firm when cultural or institutional commands contradict clear biblical teaching. 4. Let Scripture Equip, Correct, and Train • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 — “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.” • Welcome conviction as God’s loving course-correction. 5. Saturate Your Mind and Environment • Post verses where you work and relax. • Colossians 3:16 — “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…” 6. Walk in Community That Honors Scripture • Surround yourself with believers who hold the Bible as the ultimate standard. • Encourage one another to apply the word, not merely discuss it. 7. Practice Immediate, Joyful Obedience • James 1:22 — “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Like the messengers who turned back to Samaria, respond quickly when Scripture redirects you. Scripture Connections for Reinforcement • Matthew 6:33 — “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…” • Deuteronomy 6:6-7 — “These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts; teach them diligently to your children…” Living It Out Daily • Begin the day with Scripture before news, messages, or tasks. • Use God’s promises and commands as the first and last word in family decisions, work choices, and personal priorities. • Celebrate each instance where you obey Scripture over competing voices; those moments build spiritual muscle and deepen love for the Author of the Word. |
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