The Complexities of Being Jesus Obedient

The Complexities of Being Jesus Obedient: A Call to Radical Faith

In today’s world, obedience to Jesus can often seem like a contradiction. Society encourages independence, self-reliance, and the pursuit of personal desires, but Jesus calls us to a different way—a way of radical surrender, trust, and dependence on God. To live obediently to Jesus is to reflect His love, humility, and sacrifice. It requires courage, discipline, and a deep faith in God's promises. But while the journey is challenging, the rewards are eternal.

What Does It Mean to Be Obedient to Jesus?

Obedience to Jesus begins with surrendering our will to His authority and direction. Jesus invites us to take up our cross and follow Him daily, as He exemplified through His own obedience to the Father. In Matthew 16:24, He says: "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."

Jesus also reminds us that true obedience comes from the heart, not from outward actions alone. In John 14:15, He says: "If you love me, keep my commandments." Obedience is a reflection of our love for Him, a love that leads to transformation.

The Internal Struggles of Obedience

1. Surrendering the Will

The human heart is naturally rebellious, seeking control, comfort, and personal gain. Obedience to Jesus requires us to deny our natural desires for the sake of His kingdom. Matthew 26:39 shows us Jesus' ultimate submission: "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will." We are called to the same level of surrender, acknowledging that God’s will is higher than our own.

2. Overcoming Fear

Fear can often paralyze us, preventing us from fully trusting and obeying God. Whether it's fear of failure, fear of rejection, or fear of the unknown, obedience calls us to step forward in faith, knowing God will equip us for every good work. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us: "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

3. Dealing with Doubt

Even the strongest believers face moments of doubt and uncertainty. When we feel unsure about God's plans or His ability to work in our lives, we must return to His Word and trust His promises. Proverbs 3:5-6 offers reassurance: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Obedience in the face of doubt is an act of faith, choosing to trust God even when we cannot see the way.

The External Pressures to Obey Jesus

1. Cultural Opposition

In a world that glorifies selfish ambition, indulgence, and moral relativism, obedience to Jesus often places us in opposition to the culture around us. Romans 12:2 warns: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." To follow Jesus means to stand firm in our beliefs, even when it is unpopular or difficult.

2. Relational Challenges

Sometimes, obedience to God leads to tension with family, friends, or colleagues who may not share our faith or values. Jesus spoke about this in Matthew 10:37-39: "Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me." Our allegiance to Christ must come first, even when it strains relationships.

3. The Allure of Comfort and Convenience

Obeying God often means stepping outside our comfort zone, making sacrifices, and embracing discomfort for the sake of His kingdom. Matthew 19:21 gives us Jesus' challenge to live without attachment to earthly wealth: "If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me."

The Joys of Obedience

While obedience can be challenging, it is not without its rewards.

1. Closer Intimacy with God

Obedience opens the door to deeper fellowship with God. In John 14:21, Jesus promises: "Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him."

2. Spiritual Growth and Transformation

Each step of obedience helps us grow more into the likeness of Christ. Romans 8:29 assures us: "For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son." Obedience is the process by which God shapes us into His image.

3. Eternal Rewards

Obedience carries eternal significance. 1 Corinthians 15:58 encourages: "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."

Practical Steps to Live in Obedience

1. Daily Surrender: Start each day by praying, "Not my will, but Yours be done." Surrender your plans, decisions, and desires to God.

2. Study the Word: Immerse yourself in Scripture. Psalm 119:105 says: "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." The Bible is our guide for knowing God’s will.

3. Prayer and Reflection: Make prayer a constant dialogue with God. Ask for strength, wisdom, and guidance to obey Him faithfully.

4. Act Promptly: When God speaks, respond without hesitation. Isaiah 6:8 says: "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!'"

5. Community Support: Surround yourself with believers who encourage and hold you accountable in your journey of obedience.

Homework:

1. Scripture Study: Read John 14:15, Matthew 16:24, Romans 12:2, and 2 Timothy 1:7 Reflect on how each passage challenges or encourages your walk in obedience.

2. Daily Reflection: Spend time journaling for the next week about an area in your life where you are struggling to obey Jesus. Pray about it, and ask God for the courage and faith to trust Him fully.

3. Action Step: Identify one act of obedience you can take this week. It could be reaching out to someone in need, choosing to forgive, or prioritizing prayer over distractions. Act on it.

Conclusion

Obedience to Jesus is not always easy. It requires surrender, trust, and faith, and at times, it feels like a battle. But with each act of obedience, we are drawn closer to God's heart and transformed into the people He has called us to be. It is in the complexity of obedience that we find the beauty of God's grace, and in following Jesus, we discover a life far richer and more fulfilling than we could ever imagine.