GIF Preconditioned Response

“Should a man like me run away? Or should one like me go into the temple to save his life? I will not go!”

(Nehemiah 6:11 NIV)

Preconditioned Response
by Larry Burkett

As Christians, we learn a great deal about discipline and dedication from the secular world. It is interesting that those in the secular business world are sometimes more punctual and reliable in their work than Christians are in serving God.

Sadly, some Christians apply a degree of excellence and dedication to their business careers that are woefully lacking in their walk with the Lord.

The secular business world practices what is called “preconditioned response.” For instance, the airlines have found that it is not feasible to wait until inflight emergencies occur to acquaint pilots with emergency procedures. Therefore, they attempt to precondition their responses.

Even a cursory scan of Scripture will reveal that the truly successful servants of the Lord made decisions on the preconditioned belief that God’s way wasn’t the best way; it was the only way.

Just as Nehemiah did when he refused to compromise God’s way even to save his own life, a Christian must precondition all responses to temptations and problems on the basis of what God says, not what is normal and acceptable to the world.

God promises that He will protect us so that He may receive the glory. “Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me” (Psalm 50:15 NIV).

Daily Scripture Reading:

2 Kings 2-4