Obedience 101

“Behold this day I set before you a blessing and a curse;” (Deuteronomy 11:26)

We sent our seven-month-old puppy to a basic obedience training camp. When the week was over, we were given a hard copy of his commands and later, the trainer also sent a short video to exhibit the commands Scout was taught that we were to reinforce. We were assured if we learned these commands as well and rehearse them with Scout at least fifteen minutes a day for a month, they would be embedded into his memory forever. We were to use the word “Yes” every time he did something correct, followed by a treat.

These are the basic commands Scout learned, their meaning, and their relevance to us:

Watch me.  Eye contact is necessary; without his attention, all other commands are useless.

We are instructed to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2) and we are to imitate Him (Ephesians 5:2). Taking our eyes off the prize that awaits us (Jesus) guarantees stumbling as we run the race of life.

Sit. / Down.  Commands to sit or lay down involve coaxing the head; the body posture will follow.

There are times we simply need to sit or lay down and rest for refreshment of mind, body, and spirit. A great benefit of stillness is to stir our thoughts and remember—believe—that God is who He said He is (Psalm 46:10a).

Stand.  Get up.

We are commanded to tell the Good News of Jesus as we go about our daily activities (Matthew 28:19–20). There are also times when we must take a stance in battle against the enemy. When that time comes, stand confidently, suited in the full armor and power of God (Ephesians 6:13–14).

Stay.  Do not move.

The Holy Spirit of God within us will send a warning to stop when a wrong action, decision, or thought is contemplated (Acts 16:6–7). Wait for further instructions.

Come.  Move forward.

Jesus invites all to “Come after Me,” but not all will follow because there is a stipulation with the invitation (Luke 9:23). He demands first place in our lives.

Leave it.  If something drops or spills on the floor that is harmful or he shouldn't have, Scout was taught to leave it alone.  

There are many things we are instructed in Scripture to leave our old way of life—the old man (Ephesians 4:22, Colossians 3:9, 2 Timothy 2:22).

Off.  Scout knows to get off something or someone. When it seems like the enemy is all over your business and you want him off, surrender to God, resist the devil, and he will flee (James 4:7).

Ring the bell.  When Scout rings the bells that hang from the door handle, that is our cue he needs to go outside.

God’s always hears our requests and heart-cries for help (Psalm 66:19).

Jesus said two commandments cover them all: Love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37). By learning and obeying these two, we follow all. God said He lays before us a blessing for following His Word or a curse when we stubbornly choose to go our own way. Which will you choose?