YOUR WILL TO OBEY WILL BE TESTED

Just as I was called for breakfast, I hurried to get ready. Stepping into the bathroom, the Holy Spirit reminded me that it was the day I usually set aside to wait on God. A sharp pain pierced my stomach, and the hunger intensified.

Just then, I opened my mouth and said, “Thank you, Holy Spirit, for reminding me. I’m grateful.” But it was after that that the hunger truly became real. It was going to be a long day.

You might not understand how it feels to have the king’s portion, while Daniel and his friends had to “purpose” in their hearts not to defile themselves with it. And did you know it went on for three years?

“And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.” Daniel 1:5 KJV

Imagine having to say “No” to the same tempting food for three whole years. Could they not have quoted, “Thou prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies”? At least it was in Babylon.

There are things that will look incredibly tempting and test your consecration. You’ll have to say “No.”

One of the questions Samson’s parents asked was, “What will be his rule of life and work?” Can you imagine Samson growing up and not cutting his hair, while his friends tease him for his bushy hair. He knows his destiny depends on it.

Imagine attending a wedding ceremony in the midst of abundance and the aroma of food, and people keep looking at you, wondering why you’re smiling at the food instead of devouring it.

Our will to obey God will always be tested. Some things aren’t necessarily sinful; they’re simply necessary. Growth doesn’t come cheap, and the price of growth is responsibility.

The true test of our resolve to serve God isn’t always when we’re lacking or in need. It’s more evident during times of abundance. My pastor taught me this: "You would not know how much of a sinner you can be until you have money. You need money to finance adultery.”

Recall God’s charge to the Israelites about reaching the land and enjoying its abundance. He warned them: "When you have eaten your fill, be sure to praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. “But that is the time to be careful! Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the Lord your God and disobey his commands, regulations, and decrees that I am giving you today." Deuteronomy 8:10-11 NLT

Don't get carried away in the midst of plenty. Let prosperity not become a slippery slope away from a life of consecration. It’s easy to drift from holiness. Stay vigilant.

©️temilOluwa Ola, Eruwa