I recently saw an NPR comic picturing a violinist looking at a metronome ticking away. The metronome was saying, “Don’t look at me. I’m always right and you know it.”
As a violinist (and player of many other instruments) I am familiar with practicing with a metronome. Without it, there is a tendency to slow down or rush. It is also a helpful tool when practicing fast sections of a piece by starting slow and gradually increasing the tempo setting on the metronome until able to play at the correct tempo. And just like the correct beat of a conductor, when playing with a metronome, if there is any variation in tempo, the metronome is always right, and I must admit it!
As we look at the world around us it is obvious all are not following the same beat. Rather than a sweet symphony of life to enjoy, we find ourselves witnessing chaos on life’s stage. So, whose direction and tempo are we following? Our own? The beat of the world? Or are we willing to acknowledge that God is always right?
When Peter and John had been brought before the Jewish counsel and charged to stop speaking and teaching in the name of Jesus, we read their response. . .
“(19) But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, (20) for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.”” (Acts 4:19-20 ESV)
If the leaders were set on following their own beat, Peter and John chose to remain in sync with the direction of God. And despite further threats (Acts 4:21) they rejoiced and continued in sharing the Good News of Jesus.
Then, when the Apostles were all brought before the counsel again, being reminded they had been told to cease their teaching (Acts 5:28), we again read the response. . .
“(29) But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29 ESV)
That was their resolve! Regardless of those who refused, Peter and the others remained following the direction and tempo of God! With Christians brought together under the direction of God, the church continued to grow.
Let us continue with the same resolve, knowing that only under God’s direction can we be brought into harmony and sync with one another. Acknowledging it is God Who is always right, may we continue looking to His tempo for living!
Have a great day PRESSING ON IN SYNC WITH GOD!
Carl
