In an emergency a person can rise to heroic heights. For example, when the pilot of a private plane died of a heart attack, a 78-year-old woman without any flying experience was able to land the plane to safety by following instructions from the ground. Someone quoted the odds for such an achievement as 20,000 to one.
When people lack the wisdom, skill, and strength to fulfill a difficult task, it is all the more important to follow the instructions of another. This applies not only to immature children, who must look to parents as teachers for guidance, but to people in general.
Following instruction is especially necessary in our spiritual lives. After the human race had fallen into sin, it became impossible for anyone to attain God's standards for right living. If someone were to say, "I don't need God; I can go it alone," he or she should be in the position of someone without flying experience trying to land the plane, but spurning instructions from the ground.
God comes to the rescue. By means of His Word He makes us wise unto salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, who did for us what we were unable to do: He gave His life so that we might have eternal life. Faith enables us to lead a God-pleasing life and be blessed or happy in doing so. Guidance for this comes from God's word. Psalm 119:9 asks, "How can a young man keep his way pure?" The answer: "By living according to Your Word." Likewise St. Paul said in 2 Timothy 3:16, "All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness."
It is wise to realize that we are in God's hands. When we follow His instructions, we can accomplish what is beyond ordinary human competence and find happiness.
In Christ,
Matt
