EVEN DOGS CAN BE TRAINED—YET GOD’S PEOPLE REFUSE TO LEARN OBEDIENCE By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: “If you love me, you will obey my commandments.” – John 14:15
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Introduction
Obedience is a fundamental aspect of our walk with God. Throughout Scripture, God calls His people to live lives of submission, acknowledging Him as Lord and Master. Yet, many who profess to belong to Him persist in rebellion, refusing His discipline and guidance. This lesson delves into the importance of obedience, using the analogy of how even dogs can be trained, yet many of God’s people resist. It challenges us to examine our lives, repent of disobedience, and choose the path of submission to God’s will.
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Even Dogs Can Be Trained
“Even the animals of the field know their master, the ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s crib; but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” – Isaiah 1:3
A dog, despite being an animal, can be trained to follow commands, walk in obedience, and submit to its master. This starkly contrasts with God’s people, who often refuse to be trained in righteousness. The rebellion of humanity grieves the heart of God, for He desires that His people walk in obedience and love.
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The Tragedy of Rebellion
“Woe to the rebellious children, declares the Lord, who carry out a plan, but not mine, and who make an alliance, but not of my Spirit, that they may add sin to sin.” – Isaiah 30:1
Rebellion leads to spiritual barrenness, destruction, and separation from God. Those who resist His discipline and choose their own way place themselves in opposition to the Lord. This results in consequences not only for themselves but for their generations. Rebellion is the seed of pride, and its fruit is death.
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The Blessing of Obedience
“Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him.” – Psalm 128:1
Obedience brings life, peace, and favor. When we submit to God’s commands, we align ourselves with His will and experience the joy of His presence. Obedience is a sign of love and gratitude toward God, acknowledging Him as the source of all blessings.
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The Call to Repentance
“Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. – Malachi 3:7
God is merciful and desires that all come to repentance. No matter how far we may have strayed, His arms are open to receive us. True repentance involves turning away from rebellion and wholeheartedly seeking His will.
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The Danger of Hardening One’s Heart
“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion.” – Hebrews 3:15
Persistent disobedience hardens the heart and makes it resistant to God’s guidance. Those who continually reject His commands become spiritually deaf and blind, unable to discern His truth. This state leads to eternal separation from Him.
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Summary
Obedience is not an option; it is a requirement for those who claim to belong to God. If even a dog can be trained to follow its master, how much more should we, created in the image of God, submit to His authority? Rebellion is costly, but obedience brings life and peace.
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Conclusion
Let us not be like those who resist God’s discipline and walk in rebellion. Instead, may we humble ourselves, accept His training, and live lives pleasing to Him. In obedience, we find purpose, joy, and eternal reward.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart today. Are there areas of rebellion or disobedience that you need to surrender to God? Pray for His guidance and commit to walking in His ways. Seek His Word daily for instruction and strength to obey.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Remember, God’s commands are not burdensome, but they are life-giving. “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.” – 1 John 5:3
As you walk in obedience, you will experience His peace, favor, and joy. Trust in His perfect plan, for He desires to lead you into abundant life. Stay faithful, remain humble, and keep your eyes fixed on Him.
