What other scriptures emphasize the importance of following God's specific instructions? The lesson tucked inside Exodus 38:5 “They cast four rings for the four corners of the bronze grate as holders for the poles.” A small detail, yet it sits inside a long list of tabernacle instructions that Moses, Bezalel, and Oholiab followed down to the last cubit. Scripture records these specifics so we grasp a timeless truth: when God speaks, every word matters. Other moments where precise obedience shines • Genesis 6:22 – “So Noah did; according to all that God commanded him, so he did.” The ark floated because Noah followed the blueprint, not his own instincts. • Exodus 25:40 – “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” God’s pattern, not Moses’ preference. • Joshua 6:2–5, 20 – Israel marched, blew trumpets, and shouted exactly as directed; the walls of Jericho fell when the instructions were kept. • 2 Kings 5:10–14 – Naaman dipped seven times in the Jordan, not six, and his leprosy left. • Luke 5:4–6 – Peter let down the nets “at Your word” and pulled in a miracle catch. Warnings when instructions get ignored • Leviticus 10:1–2 – Nadab and Abihu offered “unauthorized fire” and were consumed. • 1 Samuel 15:22–23 – Saul spared Agag and the best livestock; the kingdom was torn from him. • 2 Samuel 6:6–7 – Uzzah steadied the ark contrary to the prescribed method and died on the spot. • Acts 5:1–10 – Ananias and Sapphira tested the Spirit by half-hearted obedience and paid dearly. New Testament echoes • Matthew 7:24 – “Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” • John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Matthew 28:20 – “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” • James 1:22 – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” Why God’s specifics are life-giving – They protect: boundaries keep us from spiritual and physical harm. – They reveal His character: order, holiness, and faithfulness. – They invite partnership: we participate in His work when we follow His lead. – They build trust: obedience strengthens the relationship every step of the way. Putting it into practice 1. Read God’s Word with an eye for the “little” instructions; no detail is filler. 2. Compare decisions against clear biblical commands before acting. 3. Celebrate past moments when following God precisely brought blessing; let them fuel present obedience. |
    |