The codes represented by the past few dates remind
me of our frame of mind when we are asked to do something. Code 10–6 means, “I
am busy at the current time and cannot take on any new directives.” Code 10-7 relays “I am not currently in
service.” This code is often used when an employee is off duty. When on duty
and active for service, the proper response is 10-8. This implies that the
responder is ready to carry out whatever instructions are given.
How do these codes apply to our spiritual lives? Our
Heavenly Father prompts us through the Holy Spirit to undertake many actions
that show His love to hurting people. He also calls us away to spend time alone
with Him. How we respond to these promptings is critical to our spiritual
health.
What is the result of a reply of 10-6 to the Lord?
Can we ever tell God that we are too busy to obey His Word to us? Jesus told a
parable of a man who held the feast and invited many to come. (See Luke 14:15-24) Many of these people were too busy. The
excuses were reasonably responsible things to do, but the man was nonetheless angered and filled their spots with others. God knows what is on our daily
agenda at any given moment. If He
interrupts our schedule, we must
not reply10-6. It is never suitable to be too busy for God. Like the man in the parable, God will find another to assign the
task and receive His blessings.
Some who have served God in the past
have actually walked away from this service. They have gone 10-7 and do not
even listen or respond to God’s call. This can happen for many reasons
including temptation to worldly things, discouragement and being hurt by other
believers. Whatever the reason is, we must guard against this 10-7 condition at
all costs in our lives.
Scripture tells us how to relate to fellow servants
of the Lord who struggle. If sin has drawn someone away; we are to follow this
pattern of reconciliation. “If your brother wrongs you, go and show him his fault,
between you and him privately. If he listens to you, you have won back your
brother.” (Matthew
18:15 AMP) Further instructions follow if he or she
does not listen. (See versus 16-17) We must always respectfully approach
privately first. Went someone is disillusioned and in despair, we are to
encourage them with the Scriptures. “Speak out to one another in
psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, offering praise with voices [and instruments]
and making melody with all your heart to the Lord,” (Ephesians 5:19 AMP) If we have offended a brother or sister we must make it right before
we can serve God properly. “ So if when you are offering your gift at the altar you
there remember that your brother has any [grievance] against you, leave your
gift at the altar and go. First make peace with your brother, and then come
back and present your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-2 AMP) In all cases we are called to “Bear (endure, carry) one
another’s burdens and troublesome moral
faults, and in this way fulfill and observe perfectly
the law of Christ (the Messiah) and complete what is lacking [in your obedience to it].” (Galatians 6:2 AMP)
The ideal attitude that we can have at
all times is a ready and willing 10-8. This shows that we have prepared
ourselves for the work that God has for us. It also shows that we are willing for
Him to interrupt us from our daily tasks. Our response to the voice of the Lord should
be as Eli taught young Samuel, “And the Lord came and stood
and called as at other times, Samuel! Samuel! Then Samuel answered, Speak,
Lord, for Your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:10
AMP) Ready, willing and able is a 10-8 approach.
Life is busy for everyone. We can all find many
things to occupy our time. Let’s be sure we keep aware of the most important
things and respond accordingly to God.
Be
ready for the Lord to speak to you today. How will you respond to His call?
Will you be 10-6, 10-7, or10-8?
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