Tag Archives: obedience

October 10
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“And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.”  (1 Thessalonians 2:13, NIV)

When we are presented with an opportunity to obey God’s word, do we demur by looking at the messenger instead of the message?

The Christians in Thessalonica were commended by Paul in today’s scripture because they obeyed the word of God as they heard it — even when it came through fallible folk like Paul.

God is continuously speaking.  Often, through nature.  Often, through His people.  Often, through our situation.  Often, through unexpected messengers.

As a disciple of Jesus, be discerning.  Don’t embrace the words of the devil because it appears to us in robes; and don’t dismiss the words of Jesus because He appears to us in rags.  – Luther

REMINDER: Daily Encouragement will be on break tomorrow (Sunday). Have a great day in worship.  Lord willing, see you again on Monday.

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October 2
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“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:”.  (Philippians 2:5, NIV)

The thought in today’s verse doesn’t end with the “:”.  Paul goes on to specify the attitudes that reflect the mind of Christ, which are:

a. Regarding gifts as opportunities. . .  (Verse 6) Some gifts you have, and some gifts you are! Each are given to us for service, not for status!

b. . . . in servitude. . .  (Verse 7) “Service” is an act or series of acts in support of others.  (Being served is a good thing, but have you ever received a service from someone who wasn’t “into it”?)  On the other hand, “servitude” is an attitude.

c. . . . through humble obedience.  (Verse 8) A star athlete falls short of his or her potential when the coach is not obeyed. Likewise, we must do, go, and be as the Holy Spirit directs; not for our own glory, but for the glory of God.

Are you cultivating “the same mindset as Christ Jesus” in your relationships with others?  – Luther

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September 19
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“The Lord had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.'” (Genesis 12:1, NIV)

This recollection of God’s first encounter with Abram (later called Abraham, the father of the faithful) reminds us that we must first go in obedience to God before God will show us the promise.

Most of us prefer it the other way round, as if to say to God: “Show me and I will go”; while God is saying to us, “Go and I will show you.”

It may be a strange thing to our family, friends, and neighbors to see us commit to something without being able to describe the end-state or the desired outcomes; but obedience ahead of evidence is how God dealt with Abram — and it is how God deals with us.

Whenever God’s spirit moves you to move — move!  God will be with you every step of the way and, in time, you will see the promise.  – Luther

REMINDER: Daily Encouragement will be on break Sunday (tomorrow).  Have a great day in worship and rest.  Lord willing, see you again on Monday!

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