Obeying the Voice of God

Author: Pastor Michael Reece

Genesis 12:1-3—The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you.

If you are a Christian and have been in church for a while, the concept that Christians should obey God and do what He says is likely not something you are unfamiliar with. It sounds pretty cut and dry, all things considered. He is the Creator of the entire universe. He is all-knowing and all-powerful, so it stands to reason that we should have no problem obeying Him at His Word. However, if we are honest, it is not always that easy or simple in our minds. We are human beings with emotions, feelings, thoughts, and fears.

If you are like me, you are someone who does not like feeling out of control. At the very least, you want to know the next step before taking it. This can take a concept like trusting and obeying God and make it extremely difficult for us. Sometimes it’s not that we’re having problems hearing God but that we’re having problems acting on what we’ve heard. Maybe you are in a situation right now where you are struggling to obey something you know God is telling you to do. Perhaps it’s fear or uncertainty, but whatever it is, it’s important to look to scripture to guide us through those moments.

In Genesis 12, we see Abram was given very specific instructions to obey. These are not just any instructions. He’s telling Abram to leave behind everything he knows and take off to a foreign land. On top of that, God doesn’t even tell him initially where he’s going. I’m not sure about you, but that would be a tough situation for me to be in. I can say that because I have been in a similar scenario before.

I got saved as a teenager in a church that I would wind up attending for over fifteen years. I absolutely loved it. It is where I first found Jesus, where I first felt called into ministry, where I made so many cherished friendships, and even where I met my wife. About four years ago now, I felt the tug to leave. Not because I was angry or because any specific thing was a problem. But I knew it was God calling me to another place. I wish I could tell you that I immediately jumped up and wholeheartedly obeyed, but that is not the case.

I was nervous.

I was scared.

I was unsure of myself.

I couldn’t help but think, “Where could I possibly go? What if I am hearing the wrong thing? What if this is the wrong choice?” It took a lot of work. It took a lot of prayers, seeking wisdom, and getting advice from solid spiritual mentors that I trusted. Ultimately, I obeyed God and took the step without knowing what was next. I’m glad I did, or I would not be in the place I am today. If you are in a season where you are struggling to obey God, I hope I can offer you some helpful encouragement.

Immediately after God told Abram what he was supposed to do, He told Abram about the promises to which Abram’s obedience would ultimately lead. When God gives us instruction, no matter how scary or uncomfortable, it is for a reason. He is not operating without a plan and just telling us to do whatever in the meantime. He has a calling, a plan, and a purpose for your life and intends to get you there. Your obedience bridges where you are right now and where God wants you to be. Don’t let the fear or doubt you are experiencing in the moment keep you away from the way God wants to use you to impact the Kingdom.

Reflection

1. Have you ever doubted that you heard God’s voice?

2. What is stopping you from obeying Him?