Devotional by Angela Jackson, 2021 graduate of Tower of Hope Academy
“Observe therefore all the commands I am giving you today, so that you may have the strength to go in and take over the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess.”
—Deuteronomy 11:8 (NIV)
(Also read verses 9–12)
Before the Israelites could enter the Promised Land, they were given clear instructions—not as a burden, but as a foundation. God’s commands were meant to strengthen them for what was ahead.
The same is true for us.
Why Instructions Matter
If you’ve endured trauma, you may find it hard to trust instructions—especially when they don’t make immediate sense. Many trauma survivors have learned the hard way that blind trust can lead to pain, manipulation, or loss. But here’s the truth:
God is not like man. He gives instructions not to control us, but to protect and prepare us.
Following God’s direction where you are now will prepare you for where He’s leading you next. When we obey, “you will enjoy a long life in the land the Lord swore to give to your ancestors and to you…” (Deuteronomy 11:9).
Obedience Fortifies the Blessing
Proverbs 10:22 reminds us:
“The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.”
When we follow God’s instructions, our blessings come with peace—not sorrow. They are fortified with:
- Knowledge
- Experience
- Obedience
These are the ingredients that make the enemy powerless to steal what God has given us.
But when we ignore the instructions, we leave our blessings vulnerable. We risk losing the very thing we prayed for. That’s why obedience isn’t optional—it’s essential for taking and keeping territory at your next level.
Trust When It Doesn’t Make Sense
You may not always understand the “why” behind God’s instructions, but trust is built when we obey anyway.
He won’t lead you astray. And He’s placed leaders, mentors, and guides in your life—just as He gave Moses to the children of Israel—to walk alongside you on your healing journey.
A Prayer of Trust
Lord, thank you for being so good to me. Forgive me for not trusting you and not following the instructions you’ve given me through those placed in my life to help me heal. I’ve been taken advantage of so many times that I struggle with trust. I understand Your order. Just like You did for the Children of Israel by giving them Moses. You have placed leaders in my life to help me heal and walk in Your purpose. Lord, I trust You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Declaration (Courtesy of Dr. Dora Washington)
I will follow instructions and trust God—even when I don’t understand or feel like it—because I refuse to wander in the wilderness one second longer than I have to.