Trusting Obedience

Sometimes we are not quite sure of Christ’s command. It seems strange, even contrary, to a long held conviction. The circumstances seem to be saying one thing and He is saying another. It is at this point of emotional tension that we must trust He is right. Obey even when it is unclear why, and you can be assured the Lord is leading you down His path.

The obedience of Jesus’ parents was a catalyst for Him to be everything God had called Him to be and do. Their parental faith facilitated a deep abiding faith in their son. Indeed, it is your trusting obedience as a parent that creates a context for your children to do the right thing. They watch for you to do right, especially when it is difficult to do right. Do your decisions leave a legacy for the Lord, or are they expedient only for the short term?

Trusting obedience tethers you to the heart of your Heavenly Father. It’s during uncertain times that you need to take a deep breath and say “yes” to the Lord’s leading. A “yes” to Him means a “no” to knee jerk reactions and unnecessary worry. A “yes” to Jesus is a “no” to short cuts and forcing things to happen in your own strength. A “yes” to trusting obedience means a “no” to procrastination, pride, pretense and impatience.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones” (Proverbs 3:5-8). Trust is His healthy choice for you.

Christmas is our reminder that the trusting obedience of the one man, Joseph, paved the way for our Savior Jesus to be born and to bring salvation to the world. In the same way your trusting obedience is a track for others to follow and find God. Do not dismiss how the influence of your decisions determines the faith direction of your spouse, children, colleagues, friends and family. Your trusting obedience orchestrates eternity’s agenda.

What tension do I feel that I need to release and obey, and trust God with the consequences? Who in my life is watching me as their example of what it means to trust and obey God?

Related Readings: Joshua 24:15; Isaiah 31:1; Luke 11:28; 2 Corinthians 4:18

Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?

How will I respond?