From the Pastor's Pen: Delayed Obedience

"But he said to them, 'Do not delay me, since the LORD has proposed my way." (Genesis 24:56) Delayed obedi- ence is disobedience. Did I start too strong? The unnamed servant of Genesis 24 looms large in our minds because of the great trust given to him by Abraham and the great returns made to that trust.

His obedience is spectacular - praying for success beforehand, eyeing Abraham's charge throughout, and return- ing quickly for comple- tion. For us, we must ask a simple question - what motivates his rapid response? First, this ser- vant is part of the covenant community, receiving the covenant sign along with Abraham. (Gen. 17:23) The prayers made and the name evoked proves a lively faith in the LORD, the God of Abraham.

The promise cherished in his heart is heard on his lips and marked in his flesh. The grace he received calls him to a gracious response, a grateful obedience. Whether it is God reminding Israel of their redemption before giving them the law, or it is Paul reminding us of the gospel before calling us to good works, grace propels us to greater obedience, not less (Exodus 20:1-2; Titus 3:3-8).Grace does not excuse delays; rather, grace encourages obedi- ence.

Second, this ser- vant sees God's faithful answer to prayer. As soon as he asks for God's help in finding the right woman, God answers his prayer per- fectly. When we have a friend who always is johnny on the spot, we are more encouraged to respond in kind.

If the God who made heaven and earth is faithful in answering the calls of dust and ashes, should we not be faithful in answering His calls to us? If we are sons of this Father, citizens of this King, our conduct should be the carbon copy of His character. Third, this ser- vant knew exactly what to do.

Abraham gave him clear instructions and provided everything he would need for the task. When we cannot see our target, we cannot expect to hit it. Our God doesn't allow us to fall into this trap, for He publishes His will clearly in His Word.

More than this, He supplies us with His Spirit to strengthen us to know His Word and to obey. How would you grade your obedience if you had a quarterly per- formance review? What is hindering your obedi- ence?

The pathway to new obedience does not go through the doorway of more effort; rather, it begins with being capti- vated by His grace, con- siderate of His care, and concerned about know- ing His will. Once our motives are restored, prompt obedience will surely follow.