"Bold Obedience" | January 26, 2025 | Ps Joel Lowery

Have you ever felt God calling you to do something that seemed impossible or terrifying? Something that required you to step out of your comfort zone and into the unknown? That's exactly what bold obedience is all about.

The journey of faith is not for the faint of heart. It's a path that often leads us to places we never imagined, challenging us to grow beyond our perceived limitations. But it's in these moments of bold obedience that we truly experience the power and faithfulness of God.

Consider the early apostles in the book of Acts. These ordinary men, filled with the Holy Spirit, faced intense opposition for preaching about Jesus. They were arrested and thrown into jail. But their story doesn't end there. In a miraculous turn of events, an angel of the Lord came at night, opened the gates of the jail, and brought them out. The angel then gave them a seemingly impossible command: "Go to the temple and give the people this message of life."

Think about that for a moment. They were just freed from jail, and now they're being told to go right back to the very place that got them arrested in the first place! This is where bold obedience comes into play. The apostles didn't hesitate. At daybreak, they entered the temple as they were told and immediately began teaching.

This story illustrates three key aspects of bold obedience:

1. Bold obedience often triggers opposition
When we step out in faith and obey God, we shouldn't be surprised if we face resistance. The apostles were arrested for preaching about Jesus. Similarly, when we choose to follow God's leading, we may encounter obstacles or opposition from unexpected sources. But remember, if you're not facing any opposition in your walk with God, it might be worth asking if you're truly stepping out in bold obedience.

2. Bold obedience often releases God's miracles
The apostles experienced a miraculous jail break courtesy of an angel! While we may not see angels opening prison doors for us, when we step out in bold obedience, we position ourselves to witness God's power in action. It might be a timely provision, a miraculous healing, or the greatest miracle of all - someone giving their life to Jesus.

3. Bold obedience always requires faith
The apostles had to trust that God would protect them as they returned to the temple. They couldn't rely on their own strength or wisdom. Similarly, when God calls us to step out in bold obedience, it often requires us to trust Him in ways we never have before.

But here's the beautiful truth: our responsibility is obedience, not results. We're called to be faithful in following God's leading, but the outcome is in His hands. This takes the pressure off us and allows us to step out in faith, knowing that God is in control.

It's important to note that delayed obedience is disobedience. When God calls us to action, He's looking for an immediate response. Remember Jesus' words: "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62). Similarly, partial obedience is also disobedience. God is not looking for half-hearted followers, but those who are all in.

The journey of bold obedience is not always easy, but it's always worth it. Think of it as a series of mountains to climb. Each act of obedience prepares you for the next, bigger challenge. As you continue to say yes to God, you'll find yourself capable of things you never thought possible.

Consider the story of a couple who felt called to lead a month-long mission trip, even though it meant potentially losing a job. That initial act of obedience led to a series of events that ultimately resulted in them planting a church and having influence far beyond what they could have imagined. They had no idea where that first "yes" would lead, but their willingness to obey opened doors they never knew existed.

This is the exciting reality of walking with God - you never know where He might lead you! If your walk with God feels boring, it might be because you're saying no to the adventures He's inviting you into. Bold obedience turns an ordinary life into an extraordinary journey with God.

So, what is God calling you to do today? Maybe it's to start tithing, even when your finances are tight. Perhaps it's to share your faith with a coworker or neighbor. It could be stepping into a new ministry or mission field. Whatever it is, remember this: you have no idea what God can do through a single act of obedience.

As you contemplate your next step of bold obedience, keep these words from the apostles in mind: "We must obey God rather than human beings" (Acts 5:29). When faced with a choice between following God's leading or playing it safe according to human wisdom, always choose God's way.

Bold obedience isn't about having all the answers or feeling completely ready. It's about saying yes to God, even when - especially when - it stretches you beyond your comfort zone. It's about trusting that the God who calls you is faithful to equip you.

So today, let's pray for a supernatural boldness to fill our hearts. Let's ask God to stir within us a firm conviction to say yes to whatever He's calling us to do. And as we step out in bold obedience, let's anticipate with excitement how God will show up, work through us, and expand His kingdom.

Remember, the greatest adventures in faith begin with a simple, bold "yes" to God. Are you ready to see where He might lead you?