Tag: obedience

January 31, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Believing Without Obeying

Opening Verse

“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”
James 1:22 (KJV)

Introduction

It is easy to say, “I believe in God.” Many people claim faith in Jesus, but their lives do not reflect His teachings. Believing is not enough—obedience must follow. Faith without action is dead, just as hearing without doing is self-deception.

Devotional Story

There was a man who loved the idea of being healthy. He read books on nutrition, watched workout videos, and even told others about the importance of exercise. But he never changed his eating habits, never moved his body, and never put into practice what he learned. Over time, his health declined, and he was confused—how could this happen when he knew so much about fitness?

Faith works the same way. Many people know Scripture, believe in God, and claim to follow Jesus. But when it comes to obedience, they do nothing. They hear God’s Word but refuse to apply it. They pray but won’t surrender. They listen but won’t change.

Jesus warns about this false security:

“And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?”
Luke 6:46 (KJV)

Belief without obedience is empty.

What This Means

True faith is proven by action. If we truly believe, we will obey.

  • If we believe in the power of prayer, we will pray.
  • If we believe in the Word of God, we will live by it.
  • If we believe in Jesus, we will follow Him, no matter the cost.

“Faith without works is dead.”
James 2:26 (KJV)

To believe in Jesus and not obey Him is to deceive ourselves. Real love for Christ is shown through obedience.

Think About This

  • Are you a hearer of the Word, or a doer?
  • Is there an area of your life where you believe but refuse to obey?
  • How can you take a step of obedience today?

Prayer

Lord, I don’t want to be a person who only believes but does not obey. Open my eyes to where I have been deceiving myself. Give me the strength to walk in obedience, even when it is hard. Let my faith be more than words—let it be action. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“If ye love me, keep my commandments.”
John 14:15 (KJV)

January 21, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

A Path to Reward

Opening Verse

“Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.” – Proverbs 13:13

Introduction

Proverbs 13:13 provides a clear contrast between those who reject God’s Word and those who honor it. It reminds us that God’s commandments are not burdensome but are given to lead us into life and blessing. Reverence for His Word is the key to experiencing His rewards.

Devotional Story

A young man named Adam was known for dismissing wise counsel. He believed he could figure life out on his own, ignoring the teachings of Scripture and the advice of those who cared for him. Over time, his choices led to trouble—broken relationships, financial hardship, and a deep sense of emptiness.

One day, while sorting through an old box, Adam found a Bible his grandmother had given him. Inside was a note: “God’s Word is the lamp to your path. Follow it, and you will never be lost.” Convicted, Adam began reading the Scriptures. Slowly, he started applying God’s commandments to his life. As he walked in obedience, he saw his life transform—relationships healed, his heart found peace, and blessings began to flow.

Adam realized the truth of Proverbs 13:13: despising God’s Word leads to destruction, but fearing and honoring it brings lasting reward.

What This Means

To despise God’s Word is to reject the life and guidance it offers, leading to destruction. However, reverence for His commandments brings blessings, peace, and direction. God’s Word is a treasure, and when we embrace it, we align ourselves with His wisdom and promises.

Think About This

  • Are there areas in your life where you are ignoring God’s Word?
  • How can you grow in reverence for His commandments and live them out daily?
  • Reflect on how obedience to God’s Word has brought blessings in your life.

Prayer

Lord, Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Forgive me for the times I have ignored Your guidance. Help me to honor and obey Your commandments, trusting that Your ways lead to life and reward. Teach me to walk in Your wisdom every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” – Psalm 119:105

January 19, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Returning to God’s Worship

Opening Verse

“Then stood up Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren the priests, and Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and builded the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God.” – Ezra 3:2

Introduction

Ezra 3:2 tells the story of the returning exiles rebuilding the altar to restore worship to God. It’s a powerful reminder that no matter how broken or displaced we feel, our first priority must be returning to worship, seeking God’s presence, and aligning ourselves with His Word.

Devotional Story

After years of spiritual wandering, a man named Aaron felt an emptiness he couldn’t explain. Despite having everything the world considered successful, his heart longed for something more. One day, while flipping through an old family Bible, he came across Ezra 3:2. The words struck him—“builded the altar of the God of Israel.”

He realized he had abandoned his altar, the place in his heart where he once communed with God. That night, he knelt in prayer, confessing his neglect and asking God to help him rebuild his spiritual foundation. Over time, Aaron prioritized worship, prayer, and Scripture, and his life took on new meaning as he centered himself on God’s purpose.

What This Means

Rebuilding the altar is not just about physical structures—it’s about restoring worship in our hearts. It’s a call to return to God, even when we feel distant or broken. Worship is the foundation of our relationship with Him, and through it, we realign our lives with His will.

Think About This

  • Have you neglected the “altar” in your life where you meet with God? What steps can you take to restore worship?
  • How can you make worship a priority, even in the midst of life’s distractions?
  • Reflect on the significance of offering your life as a living sacrifice to God.

Prayer

Lord, I come before You with a desire to rebuild the altar of worship in my heart. Forgive me for the times I have neglected to prioritize Your presence. Help me to restore my commitment to prayer, worship, and obedience to Your Word. Draw me closer to You as I offer my life in service and surrender. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” – Romans 12:1

January 10, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

A Life of Trust and Promise

Opening Verse

“And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.” – Genesis 22:18 (KJV)

Introduction

Isaac’s life is a testament to trust, obedience, and God’s faithfulness to His promises. From being the son of promise to the willing participant in one of the most significant moments of faith in the Bible, Isaac teaches us to trust God’s plan even when we don’t fully understand it.

Devotional Story

As a young boy, Isaac must have been filled with wonder and questions when his father, Abraham, led him up Mount Moriah. The journey was marked by Isaac’s innocent question:

“Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” – Genesis 22:7 (KJV)

Abraham’s response, “God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering,” was a declaration of unwavering faith. Isaac, without resistance, allowed his father to bind him and place him on the altar. He trusted not only his earthly father but also the God of the promise.

At the last moment, God intervened, providing a ram in Isaac’s place. This moment foreshadowed God’s ultimate provision of Jesus, the Lamb of God, who would take away the sins of the world.

Isaac’s life didn’t end at the altar. He grew into the man through whom God fulfilled His promise to Abraham. His marriage to Rebekah and the birth of Jacob and Esau continued the lineage that would bring forth the Messiah. Isaac’s story reminds us that God’s plans are always for our good and His glory, even when the journey includes sacrifice and uncertainty.

What This Means

Isaac’s willingness to trust and obey mirrors the trust we are called to have in God. He demonstrates that God is faithful to His promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. Like Isaac, we can trust God to provide, protect, and guide us.

The ram caught in the thicket points us to Jesus, the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. God provided for Isaac on the altar, just as He provides salvation for us through His Son. Isaac’s story reminds us to trust God fully and walk in obedience, knowing that His plans are perfect.

Think About This

  • How does Isaac’s trust in his father inspire you to trust God in your own life?
  • In what areas of your life do you need to surrender and allow God to provide?
  • How does Isaac’s story of provision strengthen your faith in God’s promises?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Isaac and the trust he displayed. Help me to have the same faith, knowing that You will always provide and guide me. Teach me to walk in obedience to Your will and trust in Your promises, even when I don’t understand Your plan. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19 (KJV)

December 20, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Bound for Obedience

Opening Verse:

“And, behold, I will lay bands upon thee, and thou shalt not turn thee from one side to another, till thou hast ended the days of thy siege.”
– Ezekiel 4:8 (KJV)

Introduction:

In this passage, Ezekiel is commanded by God to perform a symbolic act—lying on his side to bear the iniquity of Israel and Judah. This act reflects God’s judgment but also His desire to communicate His message clearly. Sometimes, obedience requires enduring what seems unusual or difficult, trusting that God’s purposes are greater than our understanding.

Devotional Story:

A young missionary, Emma, felt called to serve in a remote village. Her assignment was challenging; she had to live in isolation and adapt to an unfamiliar culture. Over time, loneliness set in, and she questioned why God had placed her in such a difficult situation.

One evening, Emma read Ezekiel 4:8 during her devotion and felt a stirring in her spirit. Like Ezekiel, she realized that God sometimes “binds” His servants to tasks that seem unbearable but have eternal significance. Emma decided to persevere, trusting in God’s plan.

Years later, Emma witnessed a revival in the village. Lives were transformed, and she saw the fruit of her obedience. What once felt like bondage became a testimony of God’s faithfulness.

What This Means:

God’s instructions to Ezekiel show us that obedience may come with limitations and challenges, but His purposes are always redemptive. When we feel constrained by circumstances, it may be God preparing us for something greater. Trusting Him through the process brings ultimate freedom and fulfillment.

Think About This:

  • Are there areas in your life where you feel “bound” by God’s will?
  • How can you trust God’s purpose in seasons of limitation or difficulty?
  • Reflect on Psalm 37:5: “Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.”

Prayer:

Lord, help us to trust You even when Your plans feel burdensome or unclear. Strengthen our faith to endure seasons of difficulty, knowing that Your purposes are always good. Teach us to obey with humility and perseverance, for Your glory. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.”
– Isaiah 55:8 (KJV)

November 18, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Obeying Even When You Don’t Want To

Opening Verse

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)

Introduction

Obedience to God can be challenging, especially when His instructions seem difficult or inconvenient. However, choosing to obey—even when you don’t feel like it—is a testament of faith. God honors our obedience and strengthens us in the process.

Devotional Story

Anna was a woman who loved her family but struggled with a strained relationship with her sister. One morning during prayer, she felt God prompting her to forgive and reconcile. Anna resisted, arguing with herself that her sister didn’t deserve forgiveness. The thought of humbling herself and reaching out felt unbearable.

Still, the gentle nudging of the Holy Spirit wouldn’t stop. After much internal wrestling, Anna finally obeyed. She picked up the phone, apologized for her part in the conflict, and forgave her sister. To her surprise, her sister also apologized, and their relationship began to heal. Through this experience, Anna realized that her obedience wasn’t just about her—it was about God’s greater plan for restoration.

Anna’s story mirrors Jonah’s journey. When God called him to preach to the people of Nineveh, Jonah resisted because he didn’t think they deserved God’s mercy. Despite Jonah’s reluctance, God’s patience and persistence led him to obey, and through that obedience, an entire city was saved (Jonah 3:5-10).

What This Means

God’s commands often lead us to step out of our comfort zones. While obedience may feel difficult, it’s an act of trust in His wisdom and love. When we follow Him, even reluctantly, He works through us in ways we cannot imagine, and His strength carries us through.

Think About This

  • Are there areas in your life where you’re resisting God’s guidance?
  • What blessings might be waiting on the other side of your obedience?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I confess that there are times when I struggle to obey Your instructions. Please help me to trust You, even when I don’t fully understand or want to act. Give me the courage to follow where You lead, knowing that Your plans are for my good and Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.” – Isaiah 1:19 (KJV)

October 16, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God Will Use You as Long as You Obey

Opening Verse:

 

“And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”— 1 Samuel 15:22 (KJV)

 

Introduction:

 

There are times in life when we may not feel “in the spirit.” Perhaps the pressures of life or personal struggles leave us feeling disconnected. Yet, God’s plans for us don’t depend on our emotions. He asks for our obedience, not perfection. When we obey Him, even in moments of spiritual dryness, He can still work through us mightily.

 

Devotional Story:

 

Sarah often felt unworthy of God’s calling on her life. She was involved in church ministry but would have days when her spirit felt heavy and her passion seemed distant. Despite her emotional struggles, Sarah remembered the importance of obedience. One Sunday, she had no motivation to lead worship, but she chose to show up anyway, trusting God’s plan over her feelings.

 

As she sang, a woman in the congregation broke down in tears, moved by the song. After the service, the woman shared that God had used that specific song to speak to her heart in a profound way. Sarah realized that even when she didn’t feel spiritually equipped, God still moved through her obedience.

 

What This Means:

Obedience is key to fulfilling God’s will. Our emotions or spiritual “highs” are not the foundation of our calling. God’s grace covers our weakness, and He uses us when we are faithful to His command. The act of showing up and saying “yes” to God in moments of doubt or spiritual dryness can lead to greater outcomes than we might ever expect.

 

Think About This:

Are there areas in your life where you’re hesitant to obey because you don’t feel spiritually ready or worthy? God is looking for a willing heart, and He can accomplish His purpose even when you feel at your lowest.

 

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help me to trust You and obey, even when I don’t feel in the spirit. Thank You for reminding me that it’s not by my strength, but by Your power. Guide me to always say “yes” to Your call, knowing that You are working through me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Closing Verse:

 

“If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.”— Isaiah 1:19 (KJV)

 

 

October 2, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

No Doubt of God’s Faithfulness

Opening Verse

“‘Take thou into thee now ark thou hast made.'” – Genesis 6:14 KJV

This verse marks an important turning point in Noah’s journey as he waits for the flood to come. The instructions from God are clear, and yet we often struggle with obedience.

Introduction

The story of Noah and the dove is a powerful reminder that faith can be tested but never shaken. After 150 days of rain, the ark came to rest on Mount Ararat. As the waters receded, Noah released one raven after another into the sky – only to have them return empty-handed, waiting for signs of dry land before flying back and forth again.

It was then that a dove landed on an outstretched branch outside the ark door, cooing softly as it returned with a twig in its beak. The sudden appearance of this small bird brought Noah hope – not just for his own survival but also for the future of humanity.

Devotional Story

Noah stood at the entrance of the ark, his eyes fixed on that branch swaying gently in the breeze. A tiny speck against a vast expanse, yet its presence spoke volumes about God’s character: mercy, patience, and kindness.

What seemed like an eternity had passed since Noah stepped onto this Ark for salvation. His family huddled together inside as torrential rains pounded down around them – while he watched from his new perch on the mountain.

The image of that dove is one we should carry with us often. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there’s always a glimmer of hope.

What This Means

This story highlights God’s unwavering faithfulness and His willingness to communicate through unexpected means. The raven served as an initial test – only the dove brought back tangible evidence of land being near.

In life’s trials we should be willing to trust in unseen promises, even when our circumstances seem hopeless.

Think About This

Consider a time when you felt like Noah: waiting on God’s word amidst uncertainty and despair. The passage before us offers encouragement that hope is always available if only we choose to look for it – just as the dove looked beyond its immediate surroundings.

How will your trust in an unseen God shape tomorrow?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reminding me of Your faithfulness.
Help me see hope when all seems lost, like the little bird that came with a sign from above.
Guide my eyes to look beyond what can be seen and give me courage to reach out in faith.

Closing Verse

“And it came to pass after seven days…and Noah released them again; and they went out of unto the ark.” – Genesis 8:6 KJV

September 23, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Importance of Following God’s Instructions

Opening Verse

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
— Psalm 119:105, KJV

Introduction

How many times have we tried to assemble something without looking at the instructions? We may have the best intentions, thinking we know what we’re doing, only to find out we’ve put everything together wrong. In the same way, we sometimes try to navigate life without reading the instructions that God has provided for us in His Word, the Bible.

Devotional Story

A man once bought a new bookshelf, eager to put it together. Confident in his own abilities, he tossed the instructions aside, thinking, “I can do this myself.” But as he worked, things weren’t lining up. He struggled with pieces that didn’t fit and screws that seemed too many. Frustrated, he finally gave up and went back to the instruction manual. Only then did he realize how easy it was when he followed the step-by-step directions.

Our lives are much like this. We often try to figure things out on our own, but without God’s guidance, we can make a mess. The Bible is our instruction manual for life, showing us how to live in a way that pleases God and leads to blessing.

What This Means

God has given us clear instructions in His Word. We are not left to wander through life blindly. The Bible teaches us how to live righteously, how to love others, and most importantly, how to follow Jesus Christ. It’s easy to get caught up in our plans and forget to consult the instructions God has already given us.

Think About This

When was the last time you paused and consulted God’s Word before making a decision? Do you trust that His instructions are for your good, even when they might go against your plans?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I’ve tried to live by my own understanding without turning to Your Word for guidance. Help me to remember that Your instructions are for my good, leading me in the way I should go. Give me a heart that seeks You daily, relying on Your Word as my guide. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
— 2 Timothy 3:16, KJV

September 9, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Partial Obedience

Opening Verse

“And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also.” – Numbers 20:11 (KJV)

Introduction

The story of Moses striking the rock instead of speaking to it is a powerful example of the consequences of partial obedience. Moses was a faithful servant of God, but even he made the mistake of not fully following God’s command. This story teaches us the importance of complete obedience, especially when we are called to act in ways that may not make sense to us.

Devotional Story

In Numbers 20, the Israelites were once again grumbling because they had no water. God instructed Moses to speak to a rock, and it would bring forth water. But Moses, frustrated with the people, struck the rock twice with his staff instead. Water did flow out, and the people drank, but Moses’ disobedience cost him dearly. God told Moses that because he had not honored Him by following the exact command, he would not lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.

Moses’ action was an act of partial obedience. He still brought forth water, but he did it his own way, not God’s way. This small deviation had a significant consequence. God had wanted to display His power in a specific way, but Moses let his frustration get in the way of his obedience.

Like Moses, we may feel tempted to alter God’s instructions, thinking our way might be better or faster. But this story reminds us that even small deviations from God’s will are still disobedience.

What This Means

Partial obedience is not enough for God. Even when we think we are following most of His instructions, any deviation from His plan is a failure to trust in His wisdom. God desires obedience, not just results. Moses may have delivered the water, but his method showed a lack of trust. We must be careful to follow God’s instructions fully, even when they seem unusual or challenging.

Think About This

  • Are there areas where you are tempted to do things your way, instead of God’s way?
  • How can you take a step toward full obedience, trusting that God’s way is always the best way?

Prayer

Lord, I confess that I sometimes try to do things my way, instead of fully following Your instructions. Help me to trust You completely and obey Your commands, even when they don’t make sense to me. Strengthen my faith and help me walk in full obedience to Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And the Lord spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.” – Numbers 20:12 (KJV)