Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 24, 2015
For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2
What is joyful obedience? It is pure delight to delight in the ways of God. To follow Christ’s commands is not burdensome, but a blessing. To be a humble child of God is to love, trust and obey my heavenly Father. Joyful obedience flows from a heart that loves the Lord. Thus, when I gladly obey and do not murmur, just going through the motions—I honor God. Obedience joyfully expressed fulfills my soul. Delayed and disgruntled obedience endangers my soul’s health. I am not just checking the box of good behavior—I am cheerfully following Christ.
Jesus knew pure joy came from staying pure to His purpose: the shame, scorn and suffering of the cross. Joyful obedience is not always easy, but it endures into eternity. It is not always met with man’s approval, but we know it makes our Savior smile. Joyful obedience is its own reward. Christ kept His grace filled composure and followed the command of His heavenly father to completely obey by His death on the cross. Complete obedience consummates complete joy. Yes, it’s the joy of Jesus that resides in His followers. Our obedience releases Christ’s joy within us.
“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11).
Are you glad to be who God wants you to be and to do what God wants you to do? If so, joyful obedience is the essence of how you see your conduct in Christ. This means you gladly obey authorities whom you may disrespect or disagree with. You know God is at work—even through those who seem to thwart His work. The fruit of joyful obedience is not completely evident in the moment, but in time it blossoms into meaningful relationships. We are drawn to others who are here to serve and not be served. God entrusts His favor to those who willfully do His will.
Moreover, make it a habit to teach your child joyful obedience. Eye rolling or disrespectful body language are not acceptable. Express your glad hearted gratitude in response to their glad hearted obedience. For example, show your child God’s expectations for their joyful obedience in Scripture. Ask them why a complaining attitude is not what God expects of them. Read Philippians 2:14-15. Discuss what it means to be a shining star. Joyful obedience imitates Jesus.
“At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth” (Luke 10:21).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, fill me with the joy of Jesus, so I will be joyfully obedient to You.
Related Readings: Psalm 19:8; Acts 5:41; Romans 6:12-13; James 1:2-4; 1 John 5:1-5
Post/Tweet this today: God entrusts His favor to those who willfully do His will. #joyfulobedience #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: 7 minute music video- Chris Tomlin: At the Cross
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