It’s been 852 days since my last blog post. Let’s be honest, most people would probably retire and bury a blog after that much time and I have considered it several times, but just like God isn’t through with me, I believe this blog community still has a purpose and a mission.
I’ve always loved a good underdog story. I’ve always gravitated to the runt of the litter, the outcast and the seemingly lost cause…maybe because something in my heart could always relate. One of my favorite Bible stories growing up was that of David and Goliath. The story of a small boy defeating the menacing giant that plagued the town with just a simple stone and a heart of faith.
I wanted to be like David and known as the “girl after God’s own heart.” I wanted to fight every injustice. I wanted to prove that even in the waiting, I would remain obedient. And even though all those intentions sound admirable and selfless, in reality I forgot to actually ask God what He wanted for my life.
Because I knew parts of the story, I assumed I knew all the story. I parked myself in places and situations thinking if I just proved my obedience, God would reward me with the people and places that I wanted in my life. And I failed to see that while part of my past, it didn’t mean they were part of my future.
I unknowingly placed God and His plans for my life in a box and I was quite resolved to die in that box because I had decided that was His plan for me. Obedience is defined as “compliance with an order, request, or law or submission to another's authority.” We must obey the speed limit or we get a speeding ticket. We must obey certain social norms or we face ridicule.
However, Biblical obedience to God means to hear, trust, submit and surrender to God and His word. Not a religion. Not a church building. Not a group of people, but God and His word.
Too many times we ignore what God is trying to tell us because the voices and opinions of those around us seem so much louder. We ignore signs that the situations and things aren’t right and don’t line up with what God has planned for us, because the world has made it pretty and acceptable to settle…but our partial obedience is still disobedience.
Even though I thought I was being obedient by remaining in unhealthy situations, I was really dishonoring God by allowing my fear of the unknown and my shame of disappointing others keep me frozen and inactive.
James 2:17 NIV says, “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. Obedience to God demonstrates faith.”
Two years ago, I decided to finally pursue music full-time. I’ll be completely honest, most days I have no idea what I’m doing, but God does. Over the past two years, He has opened doors; He has given me courage; and He continues to make a way…a way that not so long ago I thought was completely impossible. I don’t know what the twists and turns of this journey will end up looking like, but I also know that I am not in charge. My job is to put action into motion by trusting Him and continuing to move forward…even when it’s unknown and uncomfortable.
My life verse for this year is:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9 NIV)
And my word for this year is “abide.”
God continues to give me reminders that obedience does not mean you will know all the steps of the journey, but it does mean you have faith that He does.
Where do you need to practice obedience today?
Father God, when we don’t know where to turn, help us to remember to turn to You. Help us to align our desires to Your will. We thank You for meeting us exactly where we are, and loving us too much to leave us there. May we be children always pursuing Your heart. Amen.