Blessing Through Listening

SCRIPTURE
"If my people would only listen to me, if Israel would only follow my ways." (Psalm 81:13)

OBSERVATION
Doesn't that seem like the plea of every parent? If my kids would just listen. However, coming from God it is not a cry of anger but of frustration or disappointment. He says, "if only." There is a longing from God to do far more in our lives than even we want for ourselves. In not listening, we are blocking God's blessing.

He listed several ways he would bless the Israelites (and quickly).

• He would subdue their enemies.
• Turn his hand against their foes.
• Feed them with the finest wheat.
• Satisfy them with honey from the rock.
  

The reason these things were not happening was because they would not listen and follow his ways. God desires far more for us than we desire for ourselves. We want the benefits of the blessing without having to listen or follow.

APPLICATION
How much of God's work in my life have I missed out on because I would not listen and follow? Too many times to count I'm afraid. How quickly the Lord would've worked. Instead, by going my own way the blessing came later, slower, or not at all. I need to see my life from God's perspective. He tries in many ways to get my attention. If only I would listen and follow.

PRAYER
Lord, I desire honey from the rock. The impossible blessing made possible by listening.