When a child does not respect their parent, it is a matter of shame, because either the bad behavior stems from the parent or the child is simply being rebellious. But when it concerns God the Father Almighty, that is where we must pause and think; because everyone who does not respect or recognize the word and greatness of God will go through difficult situations, so that they may recognize who God is.
Let us look closely: if a person does not believe in God, in whom do they believe? One might say they are free to believe in whatever they wish, but take time to consider if there is hope for the person who does not believe in Christ Jesus. This was established by God Himself: for man to believe and receive eternal life, or to remain in disbelief and already be condemned, because they did not believe in the only begotten Son of God (John 3:16).
Disrespect for the word of God is increasing everywhere. People do not want to recognize God; they see His greatness and His power, yet they still do not submit themselves to Him.
- Look at the consequences from the beginning for Adam and Eve, and how we still see what sin and evil do to the world today.
- Look at the consequences for Sarah and Abraham.
- Look at the consequences for Lot.
- Look at the consequences for Jonah.
- Look at the consequences for Sodom and Gomorrah.
- Look at the consequences for King David and his house.
- Look at the consequences for Achan.
- Look at the consequences for Ananias and Sapphira.
And finally, we all know the consequences coming for this world, as clearly written in 2 Peter 3:7.
People live in their pride and lack of respect for God. God’s presence is everywhere; God sees everything. People pretend they can hide things from God, but before God, no one has a private life—everyone’s affairs are open before Him. Therefore, God expects from all of us respect for His word and His presence.
“Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you and you be proven a liar.” (Proverbs 30:5-6).
“I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, and from the holy city, which are written in this book.” (Revelation 22:18-19).
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” (James 1:22).
A person who hears the word of God, respects it, and recognizes it is a wise person, for they will not stumble because God is with them. A person who hears the word of God but does as they please instead of obeying carries the consequences for themselves (Romans 2:5).
“And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.” (Hebrews 4:13).
Let us respect God’s word and recognize His presence at all times.
Sincerely, Pastor Marcel Balootje.