trbccoffeebreak

“Be careful to obey all these words that I command you, that it may go well with you and with your children after you forever, when you do what is good and right in the sight of the Lord your God.” Deuteronomy 12:28 (ESV)

When it comes to getting things done, we want someone with a track record of great follow through.  We want to know the tasks won’t require our intervention.  If we pass our list on, we want assurance everything will get accomplished.  Definitely defines me as a very task oriented person.  Yet there is nothing worse than releasing control only to find someone didn’t follow through.

There is a big difference between follow through and obedience.  Follow through states I will get it done in my own timing, you don’t have to worry.  Obedience, however, is submission to another’s authority.  And when it comes to obeying God, time is of the essence. If we’re totally honest with ourselves, follow through is really disobedience if we’re not obeying immediately what God is asking us to do.

Preaching to self here. How long should God wait for us to do what He has clearly spoken into our lives?  We love the patient, longsuffering characteristics of our God.  We love that He doesn’t give up on us even in our disobedience.  Yet, we miss the joy found in obeying not on our timetable but according to His timing.

The Greek word for obedience is hupakoe’ which simply means to hear what someone in authority is requesting and then act upon it.  Keywords are hear and acts.  When it comes to obedience, we have to make sure we are listening intently to what God is saying.   If we are listening to the popular opinion of everyone around us then we will most likely be drowning out the one voice that is guaranteed to guide us  – the voice of our wise and loving God.  And when He speaks, sweet friends we need to be ready to act.  Yes, put into place.  Do the thing. Move with Him.  Don’t look back. Don’t drag our feet.

Keeping it real here  – delayed obedience is still disobedience. The reality of our submission and willingness to trust our God is evident in our actions.  So many times, I have lifted up a lot of excuses:

I will do it later
I’m too busy
I can’t do this
What if I fail
Are you sure God

Yes questions and statements lifting our preferences above our almighty God.  Embracing fear and reluctance versus sweet obedience.  Not where we want to land.  In the words of one of my fave children’s songs, “Obedience is the very best way to show that you believe.  Doing exactly what the Lord commands and doing it faithfully.” Can’t think of a better way to sum up how God views obedience – a resounding yes to whatever He asks with joy blesses His heart.

What’s God asking us to do that we are resisting?  Let’s be courageous and bold women who demonstrate their confidence and trust in the One who knows exactly what we should be doing. Glorifying God with our hearing and actions – it’s a win-win solution.

“Father tune our ears to hear Your voice leading and guiding us.  Help us to obey immediately and reap the blessings found in trusting You completely.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life