Obeying God: What Is Involved?
2 Corinthians 9:12-15
To obey God requires getting His perspective on our life every day. It means being renewed in our thinking (Romans 12:2) so our attitude and actions honor Him. It also means being reminded of who we are apart from Him (John 15:5) and who we are with Him. (Philippians 4:13)
Once we have His perspective, it takes courage to obey: courage to give up what we like in order to do what He asks; courage to do things which may bring unwelcome results; courage to rearrange our schedule to match His plan; courage to love the unlovely, forgive the seemingly unforgivable, and “give” when we want to “keep.” Courage grows out of a deepening faith in God.
As we know the Father more intimately, our confidence in Him increases and we will find it easier to obey. If we know the God who gave the commands, then we will be able to trust that His plans are for our good and His glory. We will rely on the Holy Spirit who guides us into understanding divine commands. With our eyes fixed upon our Savior Jesus instead of on our circumstances, we will step forward boldly. We will not fear the consequences that may arise from our actions. Instead we will look for the blessings that God desires to give us and others.
Obedience involves knowing the commands of God and facing any temptation to compromise with a commitment to obey. Furthermore, it means drawing courage from our trust in Him and accepting the consequences as God-sent. Pray that obedience will mark your life.
Daily Devotions with Dr. Charles Stanlley, InTouch Ministries