Two hunters flew deep into the remote backwoods of Canada to hunt elk. They bagged six elk. The pilot told them the plane could carry only four of the six elk out. “But the plane that carried us out last year was exactly like this one,” the hunters protested. “The horsepower was the same, the weather was similar, and we had six elk then.” Hearing this, the pilot reluctantly agreed to try. They loaded up and took off, but sure enough, there was insufficient power to climb out of the valley with all that weight, and they crashed. As they stumbled from the wreckage, one hunter asked the other if he knew where they were. “Well, I’m not sure,” replied the second, “but I think we are about two miles from where we crashed last year!” Hebrews 12:18-20 reflects upon the experience of the Hebrews under Moses. They were commanded not to come near Mt. Sinai lest they be destroyed. Still, many would not learn from that command or even the experience of others: “For they could not endure what was commanded.” There were always some who believed that they knew better, or felt as though their reason for touching the mountain was more compelling than others. As a result, they died. It is no less true for us today. While we may not see the wrath of God strike someone dead in the moment of their disobedience, there are still always consequences that result. Even the best of intentions will not stand up under what God has commanded. May God help us today to underscore the seriousness of obedience, and that God does not take disobedience lightly. As we prepare for the weekend and for spending time in God’s house on Sunday morning, realize the blessings that can be yours as you determine to obey God’s commandments. Have a blessed day! Jeff Russell Friendship Baptist Church, Langenselbold, Germany