Answering the Call to Obedience

If I hadn’t obeyed God a few years ago, I probably would be feeling miserable and out of place right now.

At one point in my life, I was well on my way to becoming a researcher in the field of social psychology. I had the grades, the connections, and the drive to help get me into graduate school. Yet, I knew deep inside I was meant for something else, something much greater and fulfilling (which is also probably how the disciples felt before Jesus called them to follow). Thankfully, my life trajectory would change when God called me to write for him.

I remember it as if it were yesterday. I was in the middle of completing a writing course I took for fun at my university, and I was persistently feeling compelled by the Holy Spirit to pursue the art of writing as something more than a hobby. At the time, my feelings were mixed. I was excited because I knew deep down it was what I really desired, but I was also scared because of the great amount of uncertainty that came with not knowing where exactly I was being led. I imagine the disciples also probably felt this way right before they accepted the call, as well as during their journey with Jesus.

Fortunately, I took steps of faith and obeyed God’s call to be a writer despite my fears. Years later, I can honestly say that God has used me to craft many beautiful pieces of writing that have been used to encourage, inspire, and draw many people closer to Jesus. I also can honestly say I’ve grown closer to God and feel fulfilled, for I know I am living according to God’s will for my life.

You see, we are all called to obey God’s will for us. Yes, it is not always easy, for It can be scary to do something we’re unsure of. But faith is about believing and doing despite not knowing all the answers.

Now, believe and walk forward on the path he wishes you to take. I promise you that he will be with you every step of the way and that he has greater things waiting for you throughout your journey.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the paths you have set out for me and for the calling you have on my life. I pray that I can have the courage to trust you by taking steps of faith and answering your call. I also pray that my obedience to you can come from a place of love and joy and not from a place of fear, for you are with me and for me every day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Throughout the Day: Ask the Holy Spirit if you are living according to God’s will, out of love for him, and not fear. If not, then invite the Spirit to direct you on the right path and to grant you the courage to take those steps of faith in dependence on all the powerful resources he grants you by grace.