Obeying God: What Is Involved?
Daniel 1:4-16
Obedience. It means compliance to the plan; conformity to the pattern; observance of the rules; adherence to the standard; and submission to another’s will. Obedience is the bottom line in the Christian life. Basic to every decision we make is the necessity of knowing what Scripture says about the issue; what action God wants us to take; what attitude would please Him; and what are all the required steps along the way.
Obedience is doing what God says in the timing and manner He says to do it. We must, then, know what God’s commands are – we cannot obey what we do not understand. The Holy Spirit helps us relate God’s commands to our situation and assists us in determining the wisest course of action.
Once we decide to obey, we will be met with a challenge to compromise on our course of action. Satan does not want us following God. Temptations will come our way to either divert us to another direction or weaken us through small steps of disobedience. We can counter the challenge to compromise by renewing our commitment to obey the Father just as Jesus did. Commitment like Jesus’ involves a determined attitude, obedient action and a willingness to suffer any consequences that derive from our compliance.
Every single time we are tempted to disobey God, our loyalty, faithfulness, and devotion to Christ are at stake. So let’s ask ourselves some important questions: Is my understanding of Scripture increasing? Do I find myself able to hold to God’s plan without compromise? How committed am I to obeying God?
Daily Devotions with Dr. Charles Stanlley, InTouch Ministries