top of page
Search

AS HE DIRECTS

  • Writer: Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
    Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
  • Oct 25
  • 3 min read

Readings:

Exodus 40:16-21,34-38

Psalm 84:3-6,8,11

Matthew 13:47-53

ree

Obedience feels like doing another’s bidding. And we do not like that. We want to do what we want because we want to. It is the freedom of choice for us. Yet, everything we know about the Christian faith points us in the opposite direction. While obedience is difficult, it is a necessity. There is a reason for this difficulty.


We find it difficult to obey because:

  • We want to be in control of our choices.

  • We want the accomplishment that comes from discovering things for ourselves.

  • We feel stifled when others tell us what to do.

  • We do not want anyone to take credit for our efforts and labour.

  • We want the pride of saying we did it all by ourselves. But who prides epp’?

 

Obedience is not a belittling act. It is an act of honesty with oneself. You admit that you do not know everything and that sometimes you need help or pointers in the right direction. Obedience means that you acknowledge that someone knows better than you and that you are teachable. God saw His people’s need for reassurance and asked Moses to construct a tabernacle. It was filled with so much imagery, all pointing to God’s awesome presence among His people. Every step of the way, God gave specific instructions on how it was to be constructed. And each time, Moses followed through “as the Lord had directed” (Exodus 40:16-21). A person who is willing to learn is truly wise; they will never suffer irreparable misfortune.


The end goal of obedience is for our benefit. God does not gain anything from our obedience. We, however, are shielded from misfortune, furnished with material and spiritual benefits and receive the spiritual backing which ensures that all goes well with us. The tabernacle was a sign of God’s presence with Israel. If Moses had refused to build it, there would have been no way to know when God wanted Israel to proceed on their journey or stop and rest. God, who calls you to obey, has a blessing attached to your action.


Do as God has directed you. If you are meant to walk, do so. If he says stop, do not object. If you are to rest, do not stress. If you are meant to pray, do not resist it. Do not lean on your understanding. Listen for God’s voice. Listen when He speaks in the Scriptures that you read daily (‘wahala’ for who no dey read Bible!). Be guided by a spiritual director. Let God lead you and then follow. Where in your life do you need to be more obedient?

                                                                                    JUDE-MARY OWOH



To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”

 If you said the prayer, Congratulations! You are welcome to the body of Christ. Prayerfully look for a living church and meet the resident reverend, pastor or priest.



Prayer:

  1. Eternal Father, your beloved Son taught us obedience by choosing to do Your will in everything, even to die for our sins. Through the merit of his suffering, death and resurrection, grant me an obedient spirit and a docile heart to do all things in accordance with Your will and for the glory of Your name. Amen.

  2. May Almighty God direct your heart, order your steps, guide your choices and grant you a docile spirit to obey God's direction and enjoy His peace and favour through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page