Obedience is an important part of a Kingdom Lifestyle. These moments not only challenge us but also deepen our reliance on God. Here are my notes on the topic, I pray they encourage you - let's posture our hearts to be ready to say yes.
It’s not enough to merely hear God’s voice; we must act upon what He says. Let’s delve into the essence of obedience, its significance in our spiritual formation, and the blessings it brings.
Hearing and Acting on God's Word
Obedience begins with listening. The Bible instructs us to hear God and to act on what we’ve heard. Unfortunately, many of us fall into the trap of overthinking or rationalizing God’s directives, which can lead to inaction. True obedience requires us to take action, based on God’s guidance.
A foundational scripture for this concept is Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands us to go and make disciples. This is not merely a suggestion; it is a directive that encapsulates the heart of our faith. Our journey as followers of Christ begins with learning obedience—not just to God but also to the mission He has for us.
3 Types of Obedience
Fundamental Obedience: the basic tenets of our faith, such as loving God and our neighbors, participating in communion, and undergoing baptism. These practices are clearly outlined in Scripture and form the bedrock of our relationship with God.
Strategic Obedience: This refers to our active engagement in fulfilling the Great Commission—making disciples. This form of obedience requires us to be intentional about our actions and how we influence others for Christ.
Practical Obedience: This is where we implement what God has instructed us to do in our everyday lives. It’s about being clear on His voice and taking tangible steps to follow His lead.
The Blessings of Obedience
When we obey God, we unlock numerous blessings. Deuteronomy 28:1-14 outlines these blessings, illustrating that obedience leads to prosperity in various aspects of life—our families, our work, and our endeavors.
It’s essential to view God not as a distant authority imposing arbitrary rules but as a loving Father whose commands are rooted in goodness and aimed at our ultimate benefit. He desires to bless us and guide us toward a fulfilling life.
Defining Obedience
In simple terms, obedience is hearing God and acting upon His instructions. It's not about contemplation or second-guessing; it’s about taking decisive action. This often requires surrendering our personal agendas and trusting in God’s plan, recognizing that He is sovereign and knows what’s best for us.
As you approach God, maintain a posture of readiness—be prepared to say "yes" before he even asks. This attitude reflects trust in His wisdom and guidance.
The Importance of Obedience
Obedience as an Act of Worship
Obedience is more than duty; it is a form of worship. When we act in obedience, we demonstrate our love for God. Jesus affirmed this when He said, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Obedience showcases our recognition of God’s authority over our lives and our desire to honor Him.
Obedience as a Demonstration of Trust
Obeying God also reflects our trust in Him. When we follow His commands, even when they seem challenging, we are essentially saying, "I believe You know what’s best." This is vividly illustrated in the story of Jesus turning water into wine. The servants acted on His word, demonstrating trust despite the absurdity of the task.
Reflecting on personal experiences, many have encountered moments when God prompted them to act outside their comfort zones. For instance, giving generously despite financial constraints can feel daunting, yet it serves as a powerful testimony of faith and trust in God's provision.
Faith & Obedience
Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God, as emphasized in Hebrews 11:6, which states that without faith, it is impossible to please God. Our spiritual journey should include moments that stretch our faith. Ask yourself, when did you last take a leap of faith? Such moments not only challenge us but also deepen our reliance on God.
The Rewards of Obedience
One of the most profound aspects of obedience is the blessings that follow. Deuteronomy outlines many rewards for those who follow God's commands, emphasizing not just financial prosperity but a holistic sense of thriving. The goal is to thrive and enable those around us to thrive as well.
Consider Joshua 1:8, which encourages us to meditate on God’s Word day and night. By doing so, we can ensure we observe all that is written in it, leading us to prosperity and good success. However, God's definition of success often contradicts worldly standards. True success lies in our willingness to obey Him, even when His guidance seems irrational or contrary to popular opinion.
Embracing the Challenge of Obedience
Obedience to God can often feel like an uphill battle, filled with internal conflicts and external pressures. When faced with a decision to obey, doubts and fears may arise. For example, Ian once felt called to buy a house that seemed beyond his financial reach. Despite initial misgivings, he felt a strong conviction that this was the right decision.
After prayerful consideration and stepping out of his comfort zone, he received unexpected guidance that enabled him to buy the house. (Watch episode 47 of the Kingdomize Podcast to hear this story
This illustrates that when we obey, we often witness God's provision and glory manifest in our lives. Obedience can lead to significant blessings that enhance our lives and those of others around us.
Taking Practical Steps Toward Obedience
So how can we practically live out this obedience? It starts with a heart posture that is open and willing. Commit to saying "yes" to God, regardless of how absurd or uncomfortable it may seem.
1. Posture Your Heart: Be ready to follow God’s promptings. It’s essential to differentiate between God’s voice and our fears or doubts. Trust that when you sense God is leading you, take that step forward.
2. Expect Resistance: Understand that obedience might not always be well-received, even by loved ones. Like Peter attempting to dissuade Jesus from His path, well-meaning friends may not always grasp the divine calling you feel.
3. Act Despite Doubts: Acknowledge that fear and uncertainty may accompany your obedience, but don’t let them paralyze you. Even if the outcome is unclear, moving forward in faith is crucial.
4. Embrace the Process: Understand that obedience is not always a smooth journey. It might involve sacrifice, discomfort, or facing challenges head-on. Yet, stepping into obedience often leads to greater joy and fulfillment.
Conclusion: The Joy of Obedience
As we navigate our Kingdom lifestyle, understanding obedience is paramount. It is an act of worship, a demonstration of trust, and a gateway to experiencing the fullness of God's blessings. Embracing a lifestyle of obedience may challenge us, but it ultimately leads to growth, transformation, and a deeper relationship with our loving Father.
Living in a state of disobedience can stunt your spiritual growth. However, the moment you choose to obey God, you unlock a pathway to joy and progress in your Christian life. This week, reflect on what God may be calling you to do. Embrace that prompting, act on it, and witness the blessings that follow.
As you step into a new season of obedience, remember that it’s through these actions that we experience the fullness of life in Christ. So, posture your heart, listen closely, and take that leap of faith.
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