Walking in Obedience: When Faith Requires Sacrifice
Inspired by insights from the Grace and Truth Study Bible
"Then he said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.' He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored."
— Mark 3:5
Jesus’ healing of the man with the withered hand on the Sabbath was a bold declaration that obedience to God often defies human expectations and societal norms. The religious leaders watched Jesus closely, waiting for a reason to accuse Him. Yet, undeterred, Jesus chose to do good, even though He knew it would fuel the plot against Him. His unwavering obedience to the Father’s will cost Him dearly—drawing Him closer to the cross.
This moment reminds us that following God wholeheartedly may inconvenience or even upset others. Jesus' obedience led Simon of Cyrene to carry His cross, and it brought discomfort to those around Him. Likewise, our faithfulness may disrupt the lives of others or invite misunderstanding. Obedience isn’t always neat or convenient, but it is always right.
Imagine obedience as setting sail on the open sea. The winds of culture, comfort, and expectation may blow fiercely against us. Yet, hoisting the sails of faith allows God’s Spirit to carry us forward, even when others are resistant to the course we’re taking. Some may be caught in the waves stirred by our journey, yet God is sovereign over every ripple. Just as Jesus accepted Simon's aid in carrying the cross, we too must sometimes accept the support of others and trust God to work in the hearts of those affected by our obedience.
Jesus didn’t waver in His calling, even when His family misunderstood Him or the religious leaders opposed Him. He remained committed to doing the will of the Father, even when the cost was high. We are called to the same unwavering trust. The path may be difficult, but God has already provided all we need for the journey.
A Prayer of Confidence in God's Provision
Father,
We praise You for the perfect example of obedience shown by Jesus. Thank You for providing everything we need to walk in faith, even when the path is difficult. We trust that You are working in every circumstance, even when our obedience disrupts the comfort of others. May we walk boldly in Your will, confident that You are guiding us and caring for those affected along the way. We rest in the assurance that You are sovereign and good, and that You finish what You begin. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Final Thought
Obedience to God may cost us—and others—more than we anticipate. Yet, like Jesus, we are called to move forward, trusting that God is at work in every detail. Let us walk in the assurance that He has already equipped us for every step and will use our obedience to accomplish His greater purposes.