Who's Voice Are You Listening To?

There is no such thing as existing in a silent, "obedient-less", "rewardless" vacuum.  We all listen to someone.  We all obey some command.  And we all experience the repercussions (good or bad) of our obedience to those commands.  This is the human way.  As image bearers of God we will always listen, obey and reap.

The mass media understands this.  The fact that some believe in a neutral existence is evidence that they have been following a voice so long that they don't even hear it anymore.  Magazine covers know all about justification.  Talk shows know all about sanctification.  And ESPN knows all about glorification.  These institutions have made billions off of the innate desire in every person to be acceptable, to remain acceptable and to be happily satisfied.

We have been listening and believing their voices for a while now.  And as a culture, we are reaping the rewards.  Contrary to popular belief, righteousness doesn't come from looking like Kim Kardashian, or making People's list of best looking guys.  Oprah knows nothing about becoming a better individual - that is, becoming more Christ-like.  And athletic championships continue to become more and more anti-climactic; while societal celebrations like Mardi Gras continue to miss the mark on what a true celebration really is.

Those striving for the promises of society listed above, are, and will continue to do just that - strive.  Kim will get wrinkles.  Oprah has retired.  Super Bowls will be forgotten.  And people will always be puking at Mardi Gras.  The voices are nothing but empty lies.  The hot sign outside of Krispy Kreme promises a delicious snack, while delivering one big bellyache.

But there is a voice that is always good.  The Word of God gives the authoritative command that is always loving, safe, and true.  Righteousness can be found only in Christ.  Pure instruction comes only from his Word, as we are empowered by his Spirit to hear, understand and obey.

And as we follow, we become more like him; knowing with certainty that our obedience to his voice will be rewarded in heaven.  The inheritance is ours in Christ - and the celebration upon receiving it fully will be one like this world has never seen or experienced.

How do we attain all of these things?  Rebels don't deserve a safe command.  Enemies of God don't deserve to freely obey God.  And people who should be punished are not supposed to be rewarded with a heavenly estate.

We attain these things, not by striving, but by trusting Christ alone by faith.  By repenting of our wayward obedience, we may have eternal life by faith in this wonderful Savior.  In so doing, we are free from the endless hustle of trying to be like whoever, to attain whatever our culture says is glorious. Instead of reaching heaven, heaven has come and rescued us.  All striving has ceased.  Christ and his glorious benefits are ours!  It is because of Christ that I can be like Christ.  It is because of Christ that I can act like Christ.  And it is because of Christ that I can enjoy Christ's Kingdom forever, and ever.

Listening to someone else simply doesn't make sense.  Who's voice are you listening to?