09/11/2026
"Obey My Voice"
With the commander of an army, the teacher of a school, or the father of a family, it is often not the code of laws, however clear and good, with its rewards or threats, that secures true obedience, but instead the personal living influence of the one in charge. For Christians, it is the voice of the One who speaks to us. It is the joy of forever hearing the Father's voice which gives the joy and strength of true obedience. The voice gives power to obey the word. Hence, the expressions: “obey my voice”, “hear my voice”, and “hearken to my voice”.
How clearly this is illustrated in the nation of Israel. The people of God were ready to obey whatever God commanded (Exodus 19:8). The people heard the voice of God on Sinai and were afraid (Exodus 20:18). At that point, their feelings toward God changed. They believed if God spoke to them, they would die (Exodus 20:19). Therefore, they wished that Moses would receive the word of God and bring it to them. They did not realize the power to obey was in the presence of God and His voice speaking to us. This is Moses’ point in saying; “Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before you, that YE SIN NOT” (v.20). Moses wished they would keep the heart to obey God for it would prevent sin, which was God’s aim all along. It is truly said that God wishes for all men to be saved. Hearing His word, hearing His voice, gives power to obey the word, not fear to run away.
Though a person may tremble at the words of God, hearing the voice of God through scripture is not to bring terror but to bear life (Deuteronomy 4:33). This is how Peter approached Jesus when He asked of the disciples if they would turn away. Many had already left after hearing Jesus (John 6:66). “Would ye also go away?” is the question Jesus raised. Peter wisely responded, “Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we have believed and know that thou art the Holy One of God” (v.68-69). Jesus did not speak to lose people and turn them away. He was speaking to draw them to God (v.44-45), who gives life.
We would do our best living if we would learn what Jesus did. He “learned obedience” by hearing and doing everything the Father wanted Him to do (John 8:29). It is only when we, like Him, listen to the voice of Jehovah that will we forever walk with God.
- Shawn Bain
