Jesus said, “And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:30-31 In other words, do not be afraid. He loves you and knows you so intimately that He has counted the hairs on your head. He has a digit assigned to each hair. He knows when one falls out; He knows you better than you know yourself.

I know this is true, nevertheless, to experience this does take an effort on the part of the created. Now when you first begin laying down your idol of food or tobacco, etc., and running to God instead, take note that on that day there will be more answered prayers, more blessings, and even ways of escape for your testing. You will feel amazement and wonder why this has never happened before! Obedience is the key, and these answered prayers and blessings disappear with rebellion. It is called God’s behavior modification for our own good.

Why do you think blessings and curses due to our own behavior are strange? You respond the same way as the Heavenly Father. You are closer to the children who obey you and distant from the rebellious. Notice how your heart feels when you are spurned, disrespected, mocked—it turns you off and breaks a connection between you and that person.

Experiment tomorrow with being more respectful and helpful to your teachers at school or your authorities at work and see how they respond. It is natural that employees who sincerely care for their employer will be lifted up. Make sure you do not waste your time on guessing what to obey or what not to obey—ask your teacher or husband or employer. If you try guessing and miss, it is disappointing to the authorities because you wasted their time and finances and did not give them what they needed. You have to be obedient to exactly what they want, and finding out what your authorities want is essential. Expect this to take time. Right now, keep the main thing the main thing… Lay down idols and run to your Savior for all emotions and needs. If it is food… eat when you are hungry and stop when you are full and run to God for comfort. If alcohol… run to God for your problems and boredom. This is what pleases your Heavenly Father. How can you be sure? You are about to experience blessings like never before, as well as answered prayers unlike you have ever experienced!

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