Introduction - We are all under some authority in this life. Now, whether we are submissive to that authority is another story. But isn’t it interesting that our natural tendency is to rebel though the rules and laws of the authority are for our own good?
Explanation - Read Phil 2:12 - "Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." (NKJV) It is the will of God that we obey Him at all times and in all places. We sometimes want to be selective in our obedience, normally when it is convenient. But God says for us to obey and to do so with fear and trembling.
Application - We may ask, “Isn’t my attending Sunday worship enough? I don’t cuss, drink, or smoke. What more can I do?” The Lord says He'd rather have our obedience over any sacrifice we can give. "Then Samuel replied: ‘Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.’" (1 Samuel 15:22, NIV)
Conclusion - Fear God and keep His commandments. "Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man." (Ecclesiastes 12:13, NIV)
