I’ve been building a doll house for my granddaughter. Some of the instructions are miserable to understand. Kind of like a sewing pattern. For instance, at one point I had to look up words like “pediment” and “gusset” to find out what I was looking for.

And then, if the instructions aren’t difficult enough, the parts sheet is such tiny print that I had to buy a new magnifying glass to even read the words!

So far, there hasn’t been any “funny” instructions or guidelines to follow, but I’ve heard there have been some unusual and unique instructions on some products. Take a look at a few:

• On a Sears hairdryer it says, “Do not use while sleeping.”
• On a Rowenta iron, the words “Do not iron clothes on body” are in the instruction manual.
• “Fragile. Do not drop” are on the product label for a Boeing 757.
• And just in case you might not know. “Warning. Contains nuts” is on the can of Sainbury’s peanuts.
• Apparently someone needed to know, “Wearing of this garment (a Superman costume) does not enable you to fly.”[i]

When we take the time to read instructions and understand how to use a product or put something together, we are able to do so without much difficulty.

God knows how important good instructions can be. Scripture is filled with advice when it comes to this topic.

God asks that we listen to instruction. We would be wise to listen and accept instruction, whether it is His or from a wise person.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8)

“Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.” (Proverbs 4:13)

“Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.” (Proverbs 19:20)

Some benefits of listening to God’s instructions can be seen in these verses.

“Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it.” (Proverbs 8:33)

“Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.” (Proverbs 16:20)

“When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; when a wise man is instructed, he gets knowledge.” (Proverbs 21:11)

By following God’s direction, He leads us in the way we should go.

“Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight.” (Psalm 119:35)

“A man’s steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand his own way?” (Proverbs 20:24)

“May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.” (2 Thessalonians 3:5)

There is no doubt about it, when we listen to God’s instruction, accept what He has asked, learn from what He has to say, and allow God to lead us throughout our lives, we will be wise, prosper and gain knowledge. Why then is it so difficult to do?

Because we want to get involved. We want to change the instructions. We think we know better than God and tweak the directions. Sometimes a little. Sometimes a lot. These are the times we get ourselves into trouble.

God has provided pages and pages filled with good advice and instruction. It’s all there for your use. Why not pick up God’s instruction manual and see what He has to say to you today?

“Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.” (Proverbs 23:12)

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

[i] “Live Intimately: Lessons from the Upper Room,” Lenya Heitzig and Penny Rose, David C Cook Publishing, 2008, pg. 156.