You Can’t Handle It

Read

Psalm 119:4-5 “You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed. Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees!”

Think

George MacDonald, a Scottish poet and theologian of the 1800s, beautifully captured truth when he penned, “Simply to do what we ought, is an altogether higher, diviner, more potent, more creative thing, than to write the grandest poem, paint the most beautiful picture, carve the mightiest statue, build the most worshiping temple, or dream out the most enchanting commotion of melody and harmony.”

It’s a profound thought, isn’t it? We often get caught up in offering God our achievements, our talents, and our aspirations, thinking these are what he desires most from us. But in reality, what God truly desires is our obedience. He longs for our hearts to align with his will, for our steps to follow in the path he lays out before us.

Look at Jesus, our ultimate example. In Hebrews 5:8, it’s written of him, “Although he was a Son, he learned obedience from the things which he suffered.” Jesus, fully God yet fully man, walked this earth and faced the same choices, the same challenges, the same opportunities for obedience that we do. And through his perfect obedience, Christ showed us what it means to trust the Father completely, even during suffering.

So, when life throws its curveballs, its trials and uncertainties your way, remember this: God is using every circumstance, every moment, every challenge to teach you the beautiful art of obedience by faith. It’s not about seeking blessings or earning favor; it’s about responding to the boundless love of a God who gave everything for you.

And let’s be honest, obedience isn’t always easy. It’s not a checkbox to tick off when it feels convenient or comfortable. No, obedience is a constant surrender, a daily choice to follow God’s lead even when the road ahead seems unclear or daunting. Trials and difficulties will come, but they are never an excuse to compromise on the standard of obedience that God calls us to uphold.

But here’s the truth: despite our best efforts, we will fall short. We will stumble, we will falter, we will fail. Yet, in those moments of weakness, we can find peace in the unfailing grace of God. Our salvation isn’t earned through our obedience; it’s a gift freely given through the sacrifice of his Son, Jesus Christ. So, when you fall short, when you feel inadequate, when you struggle to obey, remember that God’s grace is more than sufficient to cover you, to lift you up, and to empower you to press on in obedience. Trust in the goodness of God, lean into his guidance, and walk in obedience, knowing that his grace will always be there to sustain you.

Apply

James 1:22 encourages us to be doers of the word, not just hearers. Identify areas where you need to align your actions with God’s commands.

Pray

Lord, I acknowledge that obedience is not always easy. Give me the strength to resist temptation and to stand firm in my commitment to follow you. Give me the courage to trust you and follow even when I cannot see the way forward. In Jesus’ name. Amen.