The Outcome of ObedienceSample

Day Four: Overcoming Challenges in Obedience

Spiritual Battles

Obedience to God can be challenging due to spiritual battles and temptations. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces. This awareness helps us understand that our struggles with obedience are often rooted in a deeper spiritual conflict. Recognizing this helps us rely on God’s strength to overcome these challenges.

Understanding Temptation

James 1:13 reminds us that God does not tempt us, emphasizing that our struggles are not from Him but from the enemy or human desires that are out of alignment with God's will. The sole mission of the enemy is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). Understanding this helps us resist the enemy’s attempts to lead us astray and remain steadfast in our commitment to God.

Perseverance in Obedience

During seasons of testing, it is crucial to remain focused on heavenly things and trust God’s plans, as highlighted in Colossians 3:1-2. By believing and acting on God’s word, we can overcome challenges and remain obedient to His will. Abraham’s story teaches us the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of trials. His unwavering trust in God’s promises allowed him to overcome the challenge of potentially losing his son.

Combining Knowledge and Belief

Obedience requires a combination of knowing and believing God’s word. It involves daily surrender and the constant renewal of our minds to focus on God’s promises rather than our circumstances. By overcoming these challenges, we strengthen our faith and develop a deeper reliance on God, enabling us to fulfill His will in our lives. As we stand firm on our knowledge and belief in God’s word, we can overcome the challenges and temptations that come our way and remain obedient to God’s will.

Pray this Prayer:

Father, strengthen me with endurance and capacity in the face of challenges and temptations. Grant me a sound mind. Help me to recognize and resist the enemy’s schemes. Grant me the perseverance to remain obedient to your will, knowing that you are with me in every trial. You sit on the highest throne and forever will remain. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Your Practical Action Step:

Identify a specific challenge or temptation you face on your obedience journey. Spend time in prayer, asking God for strength, a sound mind, and guidance. Find a scripture, character, or Bible story that addresses this challenge you’ve just submitted to God, and meditate on it daily, using the lessons you learn as a weapon against the enemy’s attacks.