“TRUST AND OBEY”
(Zephaniah 1:1 – 3:20; Psalm 105:1-45)
“And he gave them the lands of the nations, and they took possession of the fruit of the peoples’ toil, that they might keep his statutes and observe his laws. Praise the LORD!” – Psalm 105:45
One of the great hymns of the church, written in the 1800’s, is “Trust and Obey.” Here is the first verse and the chorus:
When we walk with the Lord
In the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way;
While we do His good will,
He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.
Trust and obey,
For there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus,
But to trust and obey.
As you read the book of the prophet Zephaniah, you easily hear of the failure of God’s people, for so long, and in so many ways. One would think that there was no hope at all for them! Psalm 105 also demonstrates these same failures, time after time, of God’s people. But, we also read that God remembers His promises! We read of His miraculous signs and wonders, and that He brought His people out of Egypt!
Why did God allow these experiences? And, why does He allow you to go through all the things you have gone through? The answer is really quite simple, and found in Psalm 105:45 – “all this happened so they would follow His principles and obey His laws.” So, will you do likewise? We need to trust and obey!
Simple Truth: Regardless of your past and your experiences, God keeps His promises! He simply wants you to do what He tells you to do, and follow His instructions to the letter!
Reflections and Application:
- More times than I want to recall, I have gone through difficulties, trials, and tribulations. But, I have also learned that He can make all things work for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose!
- God never fails. But, we do! Know that when we fail and fall, He is an ever-present help in our time of need, supplying all that we need according to His riches in glory!
- You may fall down. But, don’t stay down! Get back up! Proverbs 24:16 says “though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again!” God will be right there to help you!
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I have fallen and failed so often… but I thank You that You never leave nor forsake me, and You are always there to help me get back up. I desire to serve You and follow You. Help me stand strong, to walk in Your pathway, and be led by Your Spirit today and throughout my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About our Author
Tim Satryan has been in full time ministry since 1980. He has served five churches in four states. He has also served as the District Youth and Music Director for the PennDel Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God, was the Presbyter for the state of Delaware for over a decade, and for a number of years traveled with the AG Church Multiplication Network, teaching church planting and church revitalization.
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