Generally speaking, rebellion can be defined as uprising of any sort against constituted authority. This may involve the use of arms and ammunitions in a polity or just some form of work-to-rule. Within the context of scripture, rebellion takes a slightly different meaning. After all, no man can take up arms against God or force His hands through strike actions. Here is an indication of how people can rebel against God: “Woe to the rebellious children, says the Lord, who take counsel, but not of Me, and who devise plans, but not of My Spirit, that they may add sin to sin” (Isaiah 30:1)

Rebellion is not simply doing things that are contrary to God; it also means acting without God!

Israel is described as rebellious children on the ground that their plans excluded God. This gives us a new insight to the meaning of rebellion. Rebellion is not simply doing things that are contrary to God; it also means acting without God! It does not matter if what is done is a noble cause. Even in a noble cause you have to be sure it is you that God has ordained to carry it out, and that the time is ripe for it. Furthermore, our text for meditation today explains rebellion as hardening of heart against the voice of God. In our previous meditation, we noted that it was the voice of God that revived both the life and ministry of Elijah. He enjoyed a new lease when he heard the still small voice of God. Invariably, a hardened stand against God’s voice is like erecting roadblock against oneself. As far as relationship with God goes, obedience is the way of life.