Divine Appointments

Divine appointments refer to the orchestrated events and encounters in a believer's life that are arranged by God for His purposes. These moments are often seen as opportunities for spiritual growth, ministry, or the fulfillment of God's will. The concept of divine appointments is rooted in the belief that God is sovereign and actively involved in the lives of His people, guiding them according to His perfect plan.

Scripture provides numerous examples of divine appointments. One notable instance is the meeting between Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8:26-40. The Holy Spirit directed Philip to go to a specific road where he encountered the eunuch reading the book of Isaiah. This meeting led to the eunuch's conversion and baptism, demonstrating how God orchestrates events for the advancement of His kingdom.

Another example is found in the account of Esther. Esther 4:14 highlights the divine appointment in her life: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther's position as queen was a divinely appointed opportunity to save her people.

Divine appointments often require sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's leading and a willingness to act in faith. Believers are encouraged to remain open to God's guidance, trusting that He will lead them to the right places and people at the right times.

Obedience

Obedience in the biblical context is the act of submitting to God's will and commands. It is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, reflecting a believer's love and reverence for God. Obedience is not merely about following rules but is an expression of faith and trust in God's wisdom and goodness.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of obedience in both the Old and New Testaments. In Deuteronomy 11:1 , the Israelites are commanded, "You shall therefore love the LORD your God and always keep His charge, His statutes, His ordinances, and His commandments." Obedience to God's law was central to the covenant relationship between God and His people.

In the New Testament, Jesus underscores the significance of obedience in John 14:15 : "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." Obedience is portrayed as a natural outflow of love for Christ, demonstrating a genuine relationship with Him.

The account of Abraham is a profound example of obedience. In Genesis 22, God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. Abraham's willingness to obey, even in such a difficult command, exemplifies his faith and trust in God. Hebrews 11:17-19 commends Abraham's obedience, stating, "By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac. He who had received the promises was ready to offer his one and only son, even though God had said to him, 'Through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned.' Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and in a sense, he did receive Isaac back from death."

Obedience is also linked to blessings and spiritual prosperity. In James 1:25 , it is written, "But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does." This verse highlights the promise of blessing for those who not only hear God's word but also act upon it.

In summary, divine appointments and obedience are intertwined in the life of a believer. Divine appointments provide opportunities for obedience, and through obedience, believers align themselves with God's will, experiencing His guidance and blessings.