Obedience...

When I was little, my dad and I would sometimes go for an adventure. Whether it was a day in some big city or a hike through the woods, oftentimes, Dad would give me a little talk before we set out. He would scrunch down and look at me, and remind me that I was to do as I was told, even if I didn’t understand why. I didn’t even understand why he would tell me that. “Why can’t I know why?” I wondered.

The older I got, the more clearly I saw his reasoning. He was taller, he was stronger, and he was more attuned to what was happening around us. I might be examining jewelry in a storefront display, dreaming about how much I would sparkle, but he might see a big accident about to happen on the street behind us. I may be staring intently at a butterfly or an unusual leaf, but he may be looking at a copperhead further down the path. Because I trusted that he was looking out me, I learned to obey when he gave instruction.

It's pretty much the same way with God – we don’t see the bigger picture. Many times, I’m focused on some issue or some situation that’s happening in my life, and I can’t see past it! When God gives me direction, it’s usually not the answer I’m hoping for. Sometimes it makes no sense at all! But because I’m learning more and more to trust Him and rely on Him, I’m also learning that my obedience to God is a necessary and fruitful part of the process.

When I first went to college, I prayed for an open mind, an open heart and open eyes. I sang that song. You know the one - "Open the eyes of my heart, Lord..." I asked God to use me. Asked Him to teach me. Asked Him to broaden my horizons.

He sent me to Africa. I protested loudly, then I surrendered and walked onto a plane. What an awesome time! So many amazing, unique people in such a beautiful, ancient land! I came back changed - newly aware that there is a world beyond Western PA and even beyond the United States of America. That Christians across the sea have many things to teach us! Obedience.

There were guys at school that I wanted to date. Wanted to be a part of their lives. But I listened to Him and He didn't direct me to any of them for romance. So I learned how to be a good friend to guys. I observed what makes them tick. I watched the mistakes my friends made in relationships, and I tucked all of that knowledge away. I waited. Obedience.

Because we can’t see it all.

Mary couldn't see the empty tomb from the stable in Bethlehem. She just obeyed. God had entrusted her with His most precious gift to the world. Which is amazing! But there were still 3 a.m. feedings and skinned knees and broken dishes and homework. She is remembered across the globe, 2000 years after her life, not because she did anything phenomenal or fantastic, but because she was obedient in the little things. Because she changed diapers and cooled fevers and mended clothes and taught Jesus how to live in 1st century Palestine. She faithfully did the thankless tasks of any mother, even though she couldn't see where her toils would get her. She was obedient out of love.

“If you love me, obey my commands.” Remember that? Jesus said it. It's true. If you love someone, you try to please them. We shouldn't obey God out of fear or guilt or because we hope to be rewarded in return ... we should obey God out of love, because of who He is and what He did/does for us.

"If you love me, feed my sheep." Remember that? Jesus said it. To Peter. Three times He asked him - "Do you love me, Peter?" (kinda like how Peter denied knowing Jesus three times, huh?) Three times, now, Peter replied, "Yes, Lord, I love You!" The answer came. "Then feed my sheep." "Take care of my lambs." "Take care of my sheep." If you love me, then trust me and obey me! Carry on my work! Be faithful, even in the small tasks for which you've been appointed.

So, how are you doing? With obedience. It's tough sometimes. It's tough to have a Master, a Lord. It's tough to focus all your love on a God you can't physically see. But it's worth it. Obedience to God is always worth it. Listen, read, ask, surround & saturate yourself with godly influences. Set yourself up for success!

Trust ... and obey.