Devotional Blog September 28, 2023

The Thrilling Adventure of Obedience

Isaiah 30:21

Christians sometimes approach obedience as a way of avoiding the negative consequences of disobedience.  They see obedience as a burden, not as a wide road to blessing.

But God intended our walk of faith to be a thrilling adventure, motivated by our love for Jesus Christ.  Obedience is about discovering God, not about avoiding unpleasant consequences.  That is why John can say, “For this is the love of God, that we Keep His commandments.  And His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5-3)

When we place our trust in the omnipotence of the Lord and act on His prompting, life becomes exciting.  We need not be afraid of the future because God already knows the outcome of our obedience and we can trust in His promise that he does everything for our good (see Rom. 8:28).

Walking in faith is so thrilling because each step leads to a fantastic blessing from almighty God.  The Lord continuously moves us through a variety of circumstances toward His overriding purpose for our lives.  If we back off from obedience because of a mistaken desire for safety, we deprive God of the opportunity to demonstrate His awesome power in us.  Small choices may seem insignificant, but they lead toward a lifetime of walking with God.

As God’s children, we should ask Him what He wants us to do every day. “What would You have me say here, Lord?” or “What is the best decision now?”  We must learn to listen to our heavenly Father and remain sensitive to the quiet voice that prompts us throughout the day.  Isaiah says, “Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left” (Is. 30:21).

When we keep our minds attuned to Him, we will begin to understand the significance of some decisions we might otherwise barely notice.  Ultimately this awareness will lead to a lifestyle of walking with the Lord and receiving his best for us.

As you look at the day ahead of you what is your next step of obedience?

Stanley, Charles F. The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Daily Bible. Thomas Nelson, 2007.

Obedience Brings Blessing