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The Necessity of Obeying God

“When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned. Yes, people sinned even before the law was given. But it was not counted as sin because there was not yet any law to break. Still, everyone died – from the time of Adam to the time of Moses – even those who did not disobey an explicit commandment of God, as Adam did…”¹

 

Being the first man and human father created, Adam didn’t have other fatherly examples to follow except for God’s. Now, you might think “What more could he want?” He had the BEST possible example, which would give him all the tools he needed to be a successful father. Sadly, Adam strayed from following God’s example, and in doing so, opened the door for sin to enter the world. The consequences of this action led to tragedy in Adam’s life, including his son Cain murdering his other son Abel.

We can learn much from Adam when it comes to the consequences of our actions, and how many times we affect more people than we think with what sometimes seems like a simple decision. I am sure that if Adam would have known what the consequences of his disobedience would be, he would have thought twice about eating that fruit! No matter how delicious it was in that moment, I can assure you that it wasn’t worth it.

Being a leader in our home is no joke, especially with all that the world is trying to force onto our children and families. But if God has given us, specifically fathers, the responsibility to be that leader, then I have no doubt that he will give you all that you need to succeed. More than ever, we need fathers who are willing to submit to God’s love and choose to follow His example. We need fathers who are willing to take responsibility for their actions, knowing that nothing is hidden from God’s sight. Blaming others for the responsibility God has given us will only hinder our growth and keep us from reaching our God given potential.

God’s Word is our manual. It is filled with examples, like Adam, that we can learn from, but also filled with examples of our Heavenly Father’s love, kindness, patience, and wisdom. Our Father really does know best, and we would be wise to obey His Word and follow His example.

Suggested prayer: Heavenly Father, please forgive me for the times I have thought I know better than you. Forgive me for the times I have affected the lives of others because of my bad choices. Help me humbly submit myself to you daily and follow your perfect example. Help me lead my family in Your ways by being an example of your love above all. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

 

1.    Romans 5:12-14 (NLT).

 

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.