The Outcome of Obedienceናሙና

Day One: Understanding Obedience

Obedience Defined

Obedience to God is foundational in the life of a believer, rooted in a deep understanding of His authority and willingness to listen to His voice. The Bible repeatedly calls us to obey, or hear, listen, and trust, God's commands as an expression of our faith in Him (John 14:15). This definition reveals that obedience begins with a relationship—a relationship built on listening to God’s voice, trusting His word, and obeying His instructions. In John 10:27, Jesus says, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” This verse draws our attention to the essence of biblical obedience: being sensitive to Jesus’ voice and following Jesus’ blueprint for becoming like Him.

Abraham’s Journey Toward Obedience

Abraham's story in Genesis 22 exemplifies this kind of obedience. Abraham's response to God's command to sacrifice Isaac illustrates true obedience. While you and I likely would have side-eyed God for instructing us to sacrifice the son we prayed and waited for more than two decades (as some scholars reported), Abraham's willingness to act without hesitation shows that obedience is not just about following orders but about surrendering our will to God and aligning ourselves with His. It is about trusting His wisdom even when we do not understand His ways. This kind of obedience requires a heart that is fully devoted to God, ready to act in faith regardless of the cost. By meditating on Abraham’s example, we learn that obedience is not just an action but a reflection of our relationship with God, marked by trust, love, and reverence for His divine will.

Develop the Characteristics of Obedience

Obedience is not merely about following rules, but about a heartfelt commitment to God’s will. Biblical obedience involves:

• Submitting to His authority
• Living by faith
• Having confidence in His plans
• Hearing and responding to God’s word
• Following biblical teachings

Obedience means putting our faith into action. Abraham’s story teaches us that true obedience stems from a place of deep surrender and unwavering trust (faith) in God’s promises, even when we do not see the full picture (yet).

Pray this Prayer:

Lord, help me to trust and obey your voice. Slow me down and teach me to listen to your word so that my first response is with faith and submission. Strengthen my desire and willpower to follow your teachings and live by faith, just as Abraham did. You are mighty to save. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Your Practical Action Step:

Today, take a moment to reflect on an area of your life where God is inviting you to trust and obey Him. Write down any fears, resistance, or doubts, and surrender them to God in prayer. Commit to taking one step of obedience, no matter how small, and trust that God will guide you through it.