Embrace the Word ~ August 2024: Bold Devotion Week 4
Hi family! September is right around the corner. This is an exciting time of year for me because I get to meet all my new little second graders. I will meet them tomorrow, and Monday is the first day of school. We still have quite a few more days in August, and I don’t want to rush anything! Especially as we focus our hearts on drawing nearer to God!
It’s Week Four of August’s Embrace The Word theme, “Bold Devotion: You are My Desire.” This week, we focused on obedience as a spiritual discipline. The hand of God was all over this because I have been hearing the same message repeatedly. On Sunday, both the Sunday School lesson and the main sermon were about obedience! God is speaking through His Word and His people. I hope we all are listening.
(Link to the FREE Devotional Guide at the end of this email)
The truth is that everyone wants to be their own person and do their own thing. To most, obedience is often viewed as a burden, something to keep you down and subjugated. But in reality, the Word of God lets us know that obedience is really a pathway to freedom and blessing.
In John 14:15, Jesus reminds us that our love for Him is demonstrated through our willingness to obey His commands. His commands are not burdensome (1 John 5:2-4). They don’t weigh us down but rather lift us beyond where we are to a place of joy and peace that only comes from a genuine relationship with a loving Father who knows what is best for you. Following His command and desire His perfect will leads us to the Lord’s delight!
If you love me, keep my commandments. John 14:15
Deuteronomy 5:33 encourages us to walk in obedience, telling us that God’s commands are not just for His benefit but for ours. Obedience is tied to our well-being; it is the foundation upon which we build a prosperous life (Matthew 7:24). When we choose to obey, we open ourselves to experience the abundant life that God desires for us.
You shall walk in all the ways which the Lord your God has commanded you, that you may live and that it may be well with you, and that you may prolong your days in the land which you shall possess. Deuteronomy 5:33
James 1:22 challenges us to be doers of the Word, not just listeners. It is easy to hear God’s commands and agree with them, but true obedience requires action. As we put our faith into practice, we not only grow in our relationship with God, but we also become a light to others, demonstrating the transformative power of a life lived in obedience.
But be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James 1:22
Consider these questions: What areas of your life is God calling you to obey Him more fully? How can you actively demonstrate your love for God through your actions today?
Heavenly Father, help us recognize the blessings that come from obedience. Give us the strength and courage to follow Your commands, knowing that they lead to life and prosperity. May our actions reflect our love for You, and may we be witnesses to others of the joy found in obedience.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This week’s devotional guide focuses on prayer as a spiritual discipline. Prayer is communication with the creator of the whole world. He so lovingly and graciously invites us to draw near to Him. Prayer is one of the ways we draw nearer to God.
Download Week Four’s FREE Devotional Guide HERE
I’d love to hear from you, friend. Keep reaching out! Also, join us on the Sparrow’s Song Facebook page by liking our page here or following us on Instagram.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that by the power of the Holy Spirit, you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13
Your friend in the journey,
Remember: The Word W.O.R.K.S. We are walking in Wholeness, Obedience, Righteousness, and Kingdom Success through the Word of God.