A dear brother came to me for counseling several years ago; it was on the issue of marriage. He said, “God told me I can marry any of these two sisters.” That statement rang a bell in my spirit; “does God suggests or He instructs?” I thought to myself; “it’s either you have heard God or you did not hear Him”.

Friend, never mistake a divine instruction for a suggestion. God is not only your friend, He is your Lord and Father. He does not suggest, He instructs. The fact that His communication is suggestive does not mean you should take it as such. He does not tell us what we might do but what we should do.

Until the voice of God to you becomes a commandment, you are not yet ready to fulfil God’s highest purpose on your life. Look at what Paul said here; “I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19). Why did he used the word, “disobedient”? Because he saw God’s vision or instruction as a command. That God leads you gently does not mean you should trivialise it.

God does not drive us, He leads us. He reveals His will to us and allows us to decide to go on that path; “…I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19). God’s commandments are not burdensome because He does not lord it over us even though He is our Lord (1 John 5:3).

When you see God’s instructions as commandments, it would position your heart to see the implications of your obedience or disobedience on your destiny. “Having in readiness to punish all disobedience when your own obedience is complete” (2 Corinthians 10:6). As Jesus submitted to the leading of the Holy Spirit, we also should do likewise; seeing Him as Lord, not only saviour (Luke 4:1).

Learn to see divine instructions for what they are. Don’t be deceived into downplaying them. Like Jesus, see your life’s assignment as a commandment; “I must work the work of Him that sent me…” (John 9:4). Are there nudging or instructions of the Scriptures that you have unknowingly jettisoned? Respond appropriately, and it shall be well with you! Amen!

© ‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria