DAY 1
Radical Disciples Wholeheartedly Obey Jesus
What comes to mind when you think about the command to OBEY? Some of us may have a negative, uncomfortable feeling associated with the word. We may equate it with a loss of freedom or fun. We don’t want to be told what to do or controlled by another but want to be our own person and to function independently. However, the Bible has a lot of positive things to say about obedience as it can bring true freedom and joy into our lives. Jesus himself said, ‘You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to [obey] my teachings. And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.’ – John 8:31-32. Obedience and freedom are not mutually exclusive. In fact, it is only when we surrender our lives to a loving, holy, perfect God, who has good plans for our lives, that we can be our most free.
However, a wholehearted commitment to obey God requires a radical choice on our part to trust in His Word, His Character, and His unwavering love for us, even in the times when we don’t sense His presence, experience His provision or feel His peace. There is no safer place to be than when we’re fully surrendered in wholehearted obedience to God’s Word and to His Spirit.
QUOTABLE QUOTE
I believe Christians often perceive obedience to God as some test designed just to see if we’re really committed to Him. But what if it’s designed as God’s way of giving us what’s best for us?
– Pastor Craig Groeschel
daily devotional
by Josh Gardiner
Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
– Matthew 28:16-20
- Position yourself to come before the Lord in worship. Take time to adore and honour Him. From this place of surrender, take time to repent of those times where we can so often manoeuvre through life without acknowledging Him first and foremost.
- With an open heart, allow the Lord to reveal His truth, His will and His way for your life. Let His love wash over you, bringing peace, clarity, fresh perspective and purpose into your life.
- Acknowledge the presence of the Holy Spirit and release Him to help you walk through your day in partnership with the Lord, with heightened awareness of His word and heart. Thank God for the true freedom that we live in, as we surrender to His goodness and truth.
A CALL TO ACTION
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As a church family, we’ll be taking up our annual Special Offering on Sunday 5 March. Find out more by watching the video below.