Scripture Reading: “Hold fast to instruction, let her not go; keep her, for she is thy life.”- Proverbs 4:13

Earlier today I was thinking about the importance of heeding instructions, and I thought about this verse that says we should “Hold Fast” to instruction. (The amplified renders it [actively seek it and firmly grip it] and do not let it go.)

I’ve been having an up-and-down battle with my sciatica. It’s been one of the most challenging experiences that I’ve had in my life. I just simply do not like pain..

I went to see the doctor concerning the issue, and I was prescribed medication to help ease the pain. But I was also given a list of instructions on what kind of stretches to do, as well as being instructed to see a therapist.

To me, it seemed like too much to have to go through to find relief. But then I thought about it; “what if relief was dependent upon my willingness to adhere to the instructions given?” “Would I have such a big problem following the instructions then?”

I think the same can be said for our willingness, or unwillingness, to follow the instructions that are given to us in the word of God. We have a tendency to feel like some things are just too much. But if we knew that our very lives, and the enjoyment and blessing therein, depended upon our adherence to the instructions given to us from God, would we be more willing to hold fast to those instructions? Or would we simply cast it off as unnecessary?

The abovementioned verse says that instruction is our life. God’s word is our life; and although I have had to learn this lesson the hard way many times, I am grateful that I have come to see the benefits of holding fast to His instruction.

May God continue to bless you during this challenging season,

Pastor Lowe