Colossians 1:9–14 ‘Live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience.’ (vv10–11)
The wonderful thing about God’s will is that whilst obedience pleases Him, it equally refreshes us. Obedience is like enjoying a fresh shower in God’s Spirit, continuously. The experience of a shower, the warmth of the pressurised water literally cleansing the skin and physically rebooting us, restores every aspect of our being; physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual. Indeed, taking a shower is a prayerful action as I confess to God and surrender myself to the cleansing of His Spirit.
I encourage everyone to find ways to use everyday activities as prayer opportunities to linger with God and remind themselves to remain in God’s glorious presence. Obedience will ensure that we see God’s fruit born from our investment of time and effort. We will learn the way of God, and find the ability to step back from temptation, practising the discipline of taking every thought captive to Christ (2 Cor. 10:5).
So we now direct our thoughts, rather than being led by them, and our resolve to seek God’s kingdom strengthens. Of course, this road is demanding and we need to remain committed to our goal. We may stumble and fall, even wonder if we can truly live out God’s will on earth; but don’t allow discouragement to rob you of your best intention in seeking to live entirely for God.
Scripture to consider: 1 Chron. 29:14–20; Prov. 16:6–25; Gal. 1:6–12; 1 Cor. 10:23–33.
An action to take: What distracts your mind and interrupts your walk of obedience?
A prayer to make: ‘Lord, thank You that obedience pleases You and nurtures and nourishes me in faithful service. Amen.’
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