The Courage To Obey God

The Courage to Obey God 

Obeying God requires immense courage, especially when it means standing against societal norms, personal desires, and even close relationships. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that emphasize the importance of obedience to God and the blessings it brings.

The Call to Obey

The Bible is clear about the necessity of obedience. In John 14:15, Jesus says, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” This verse underscores that our love for God is demonstrated through our obedience. Similarly, Acts 5:29 states, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” This highlights the priority of divine commands over human expectations.

Encouragement to Trust and Obey

Trusting in God and moving forward in complete obedience can be daunting, but the scriptures offer encouragement. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” This passage reassures us that God will guide us when we trust and obey Him.

Isaiah 1:19 promises, “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.” This verse encourages us to be willing and obedient, assuring us of God’s provision and blessings.

Moral Obligations and Reflective Questions

As Christians, we have a moral obligation to obey God. This obedience is not just about following rules but about aligning our lives with God’s will. Reflect on these questions:

• Are there areas in my life where I prioritize human approval over God’s commands?
• How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God’s plan for my life?
• What steps can I take to ensure my obedience to God is unwavering?

The Price of Disobedience and the Rewards of Obedience

Disobedience to God comes with consequences. Leviticus 26:14-16 warns, “But if ye will not hearken unto me, and will not do all these commandments; And if ye shall despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments, so that ye will not do all my commandments, but that ye break my covenant: I also will do this unto you; I will even appoint over you terror, consumption, and the burning ague, that shall consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart.” This passage illustrates the severe consequences of disobedience.

Conversely, obedience brings rewards. Deuteronomy 28:1-2 promises, “And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.”

 “Dear Heavenly Father, we bow our heads and come to You with humble hearts, seeking the courage to obey You in all circumstances. Strengthen our faith and resolve to prioritize Your will above all else. Help us to trust in Your guidance and to walk in obedience, knowing that Your plans for us are good. Forgive us for the times we have faltered and give us the grace to follow You wholeheartedly in every given circumstance, no matter how much we don’t agree with it, have Your way LORD and Your will be done in all things. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway Exercise

Reflect on Joshua 1:9: “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Meditate on this verse throughout the day and night, allowing it to strengthen your resolve to obey God courageously.

May this reflection upon the LORD’s Word and His love – inspire you to live a life of unwavering obedience to God, trusting in His promises and experiencing the fullness of His blessings.