Day 1: The Call to Obedience (Ezra 8:21)
Do you seek to experience the blessing of holy living? Or better yet, are you willing to be taught and trained in the ways of righteousness by God? If you are willing and ready to grow deeper in the Lord, why don’t you partake in our 14 Day Water Fast? The first day of this fast focuses on the matter of obedience.
Day 1: The Call to Obedie...
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Scripture Focus:
“Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”
— 1 Samuel 15:22
Reflection
One of life’s greatest lessons is obedience. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture reminds us that the whole duty of man is to fear God and obey His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).
As we walk through this fast—and through life—the real question is not only what we must obey, but how. History reveals the struggle of humanity to keep God’s commands, but the journey begins not with how, but with why.
Before you can learn to obey, you must understand why obedience matters to God and to you.
Why We Obey God
We are called to obey God:
- To be like Him (Genesis 1:26)
- To love Him (1 John 5:2-3)
- To worship Him (Psalm 86:8-10)
- To glorify Him (Hebrews 13:20-21)
- To serve Him (James 2:26)
- To mature in His likeness (Romans 8:14-16)
Obedience is more than compliance—it is the expression of God’s life through us. Our very existence flows from Him (Job 33:4; John 1:3-4). We live to reflect His image and walk in deep fellowship with Him.
How We Obey God
Here are ten steps that can help you live in obedience to God’s commands:
- Be born again — Only a regenerated spirit can truly obey God (John 3:3-5).
- Choose obedience — It is a daily decision (Romans 6:16).
- Prioritize God — Submit your thoughts to the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 10:5).
- Love God and love others — The greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37-39).
- Know who God is — Reflect on His works and His love for you.
- Fear God — Holy reverence guards your heart from sin (Isaiah 50:10).
- Be doers of the Word — Act on what you hear by faith (James 1:22).
- Revere God rightly — Obey Him with humility, never casually.
- Obey God above man — Even when it means standing alone (Acts 5:29).
- Hear and respond — Faith grows as you act on God’s Word (Romans 10:17).
Scriptures to Meditate On
- Exodus 15:11 — “Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods?…”
- Leviticus 20:26 — “You shall be holy to me, for I the Lord am holy…”
- 2 Corinthians 7:1 — “…let us cleanse ourselves… bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.”
Prayer
Lord, today I choose to align my will with Yours. I surrender my life and my actions to Your Word. Help me walk in obedience—not just in this fast, but in every area of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection Question
What step of obedience is God inviting you to take today—even if it feels difficult?
For Further Reading: Matthew 1–3
