Words to Live By

I was recently watching an interview that Andy Stanley did with his dad, Dr. Charles Stanley. He made this statement that stopped me in my tracks. 

"Obey God, leave all the consequences to Him." 

Words to live by for sure but read it again and let it sink in. I'll wait...

Sounds simple enough. But really?

Let's say you are doing what you believe God has called you to do when things start to take a turn for the worse. People are saying negative things about you and to you. The ripple affect seems to be getting bigger and bigger. You know in your heart that you have made the right decisions, said the truth, followed God's will so why does the future look so grim?

"Obey God..." But Lord I did what I believed was your will and look where it got me.  

"...leave all the consequences to Him." But Lord, what if those who have wronged me get away with it? How can I make sure the truth gets to everyone who has heard these negative things? 

"...leave all the consequences to Him." I heard you the first time but shouldn't I be doing my part to fix this? But, but, but...

It is our human nature to want to fix the wrongs in our lives. And being the created beings that we are, God knows that is our nature. He knows our instinct is to fight back, defend our reputations, seek revenge. 

How freeing would it be for us to fully embrace this concept of leaving all the consequences to Him? Imagine the peace we could experience if we truly believed all things would be made right by God alone, without our help or interference. 

Our world right now seems to be in a downward spiral. Truth has been turned upside down and we are constantly being pressured to accept what we know to be against God's laws as good and right. 

"The Lord is known by his acts of justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands." Psalm 9:16

Some things might not be made right this side of heaven but I've read the end of the Book. We win. Our job is to obey; the rest is in His hands.  Amen!