Hope: A Courageous Journey of FaithSample

DEVOTION - TODAY'S DISCUSSION If you were really honest with yourself, would you say that you are strong-willed, maybe even stubborn? If you have ever parented a strong and stubborn child, you know how frustrating and challenging it can be. When God looks at you, does he see His child in this way? Obedience is not an easy way to live. Disobedience pre-dates us all the way back to Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden. When we are obedient we must give up power and control to someone else and follow their will rather than our own. Obedience involves trust, and surrender. Jesus Christ was the only person in our world that was completely obedient to God. "Though he was God's Son, he learned trusting-obedience by what he suffered, just as we do." (Hebrews 5:8 MSG) Trusting God and being obedient to His will move us into his glorious presence where we can feel safe surrendering our lives to Him. Is this where you are today? If not, what do you need in order to surrender to God? More faith? More focus? Or maybe, just more of Him and less of you. FROM "TAYLOR'S GIFT" THE BOOK What is it that You want me to do? What is Your plan for my life? How am I supposed to serve You in the midst of all this? When Tara was awake, she spent a lot of time outdoors, and she would watch me work in the yard. One day, I sat down next to her and said, “I feel as if there is something more for me. I feel like I need to quit my job and be the executive director of the foundation.” Tara and I weren’t talking much at this time, which, in hindsight, was a good thing. Instead of asking for her advice, I had been seeking God and praying harder than ever. While I knew my words came as a surprise, she listened as I explained my thoughts and prayers. More than anything I wanted to follow God’s will. “So, I am waiting. I’m waiting to see what God is doing,” I said. TODAY'S REFLECTIONS Do you truly trust God, even when the answer is not what you want? Pray for God to guide you into a life of responsive obedience. Ask God for the faith necessary to truly submit to Him in every way.