[406 words]
We live in an age of health-conscious people. Many people are concerned about their health. Many of you are either on a diet or exercise program. I want to share with you the best exercise program. It’s not a new program. People have used it for thousands of years. What is this exercise program, you ask? It’s called “walking with God.” We first see it in Genesis 5:21-24. Here we are told that Enoch walked with God. Can you think of a better exercise program? God desires that we walk with Him. Noah was a man who walked with God (Gen. 6:9). Abraham was encouraged to walk with God (Gen. 17:1). What does it mean to walk with God?
First, walking with God means to comply with His will. There is one thing that God has asked of His people in every dispensation (Patriarchal age, Mosaic age, Christian age). Do you know what it is? Be holy! Enoch complied with God’s will and lived a life that brought joy and delight to the heart of God. Enoch was a bright light in a dark world. Three words sum up his life: “He pleased God” (Heb. 11:15). He pleased God so much that God took him to Heaven without dying.
Second, walking with God means to be a voice for God (Jude 14). He warned the people of his day of God’s coming Judgment. If we’re going to walk with God today, we must lift up our voice and proclaim God’s coming Judgment (2 Thess. 1:8-10). We must also share how mankind can prepare for this coming Judgment of God by proclaiming the gospel (Mark 16:15-16).
Third, walking with God means consistency (Gen. 5:21-22). Enoch walked with God for 300 years. He started at age 65 and never looked back. Have you ever wondered why some people drop out of the Christian race while others keep running? Those who stay in the race make their relationship with God the highest priority of their life, while others have other priorities. If you want to be consistent, you must make the Kingdom of God the greatest priority of your life (Matt. 6:33).
Walking with God truly is the best exercise. Have you been walking with God? If not, you can start today. You will be glad you did (Heb. 11:6). God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Ray Rose
Garriott Road church of Christ
Enid, OK