Obedience to God is one of the greatest demonstrations of faith. It requires trust, surrender, and more often than not, stepping into the unknown. Whether in our personal lives or the mission field, walking in obedience is not always easy, but it is always worth it. Let us explore what it means to trust God even when obedience feels difficult.
Obedience and Trust: Two Sides of the Same Coin
Obedience and trust go hand in hand (trust and obey, for there’s no other way, to be happy in Jesus but to trust and obey). When God calls us to take a step of faith, He often does not provide all the details upfront. He asks us to trust Him, to follow His guidance, and to rely on His wisdom rather than our own understanding. As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us:
“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”
Faithful obedience is an act of trust that God knows what is best for us, even when we cannot see the full picture because HE can see the full picture.
Biblical Examples of Difficult Obedience
Throughout Scripture, we see examples of men and women who chose obedience despite their fears and uncertainties:
1. Abraham’s Journey of Faith – God told Abraham to leave his homeland and go to an unknown land (Genesis 12:1-4). Despite not knowing where he was going, Abraham obeyed, and God fulfilled His promises through him.
2. Moses Leading Israel – Moses was hesitant when God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3-4). He felt inadequate, yet he obeyed and the Israelite’s journey from Egypt to the promised land is one that displays God’s power and sovereignty over every facet of His creation.
3. Jesus in Gethsemane – The ultimate example of obedience is Jesus. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Matthew 26:36-46) three times, and after an anxiety-filled session of prayer, He paid the ultimate price for our sake. His obedience to the Father led to salvation for all who believe in Him.
These stories remind us that obedience is not about having all the answers but about having faith in Jehovah, for He has all the answers.
Obedience in Mission Work
For those involved in field mission work, obedience can be particularly challenging. It may involve leaving behind the comforts you are used to, facing rejection, or navigating unfamiliar territories, cultures, and languages. Yet, we know and trust that God equips those He calls.
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- Trusting God with Resources – Many missionaries start with little to no financial support or material provision. However, God provides through unexpected ways, for He shall supply according to His riches in glory. (Philippians 4:19). We are so much more precious than the birds of the air who are also well cared for by our Father. (Matt 6:25-34)
- Obedience Despite Opposition – Sharing the Gospel may lead to resistance, yet we are called to remain faithful (Matthew 28:19-20).
- Relying on God’s Strength – When we feel weak or unqualified, God reminds us that His grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9), His strength is found in our weakness and we can do all things through Christ who is our source of strength (Phill 4:13)
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How to Walk in Obedience Daily
If obedience feels overwhelming, here are a few practical ways to remain faithful:
1. Stay Rooted in Scripture – For the Lord’s Word is a lamp unto our feet (Psalm 119:105).
2. Pray for Strength and Guidance – Ask God to align your heart with His will.
3. Take Small Steps of Faith – Obedience often starts with small, daily acts of trust.
4. Surround Yourself with Supportive Believers – Community encourages and strengthens obedience.
5. Remember God’s Faithfulness (Journal daily) – Reflect on past moments when God showed up as a reminder that He will do it again.
Final Thoughts
Walking in obedience is not always easy, but it is always rewarding. God honors those who trust Him, and He never asks us to step out in faith without also walking with us. He will not send you to war and abandon you midway. He promises to be with us till the end of the age (Matt 28:20) and we know HE will be with us all through eternity Whether in your personal faith journey or mission work, remember that obedience to God is not about comfort—it is about surrender and trust. And in that trust, we find His faithfulness and grace.
Are you facing a situation where obedience feels difficult? Trust in Him—He will lead you.
“Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous?
Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”