The disciples received the Holy Spirit’s baptism on Pentecost because they were in the right place at the right time. Jesus specifically instructed them to remain in Jerusalem and wait for the promise of the Father. Remarkably, they obeyed and waited with eager anticipation. Despite Jesus’ physical absence, they prayed, fully expecting the Holy Spirit to come—and He did. Had they not been there, had they not obeyed, they would have missed out on this great gift by which they were instrumental in changing the world for God.
Many of us are not so careful to listen and follow divine instructions. Even ministers of the gospel often encounter challenges in following divine instructions. Prevailing circumstances and the opinions of others can sway them from the place of complete obedience. Many a minister has fallen prey to intimidation from the pews and succumbed to confusion at the apparent impracticality of divine guidance.
God values the process and the journey just as much as the destination. Share on XSometimes, stubbornness creeps in. We convince ourselves that prayer can somehow offset our disobedience, or that fasting compensates for failing to follow God’s instructions. We become fixated on the end goal: becoming a pastor, graduating from medical school, or achieving some other aspiration. We walk the floor in prayer, seek out all means to get what we want. Yet, we overlook a crucial truth: God values the process and the journey just as much as the destination. Our obedience during the journey is what ultimately ensures our arrival at the intended outcome. And the outcome is not just the realisation of our objectives but the perfection of God’s purpose in our lives.
Obedience is a simple truth. it is not complex theology. God is King; we owe Him obedience. Our deep grasp of theology is inconsequential if our obedience is not radical. How often, we skim over these seemingly simple truths without fully grasping their significance. Yet, these truths hold the key to life-changing experiences.
How many times have we heard God’s promises, only to see years pass without their fulfillment? Frustration sets in as we battle people, the devil, and even ourselves.
The answer lies in obedience. Have we met the conditions set by God? Have we followed His instructions? Or do we question whether obedience matters? God works with faithful individuals. Paul advised Timothy to entrust what he had received to such faithful men. God desires people who willingly obey Him without question or hesitation, doing whatever He asks of them because it is His will. Period.
Yet, too often, we balk at God’s guidance, spurn obedience. Instead, we try to manipulate God—quoting Scripture hastily, complaining, and expecting our actions to impress Him. God is love, not sentiment, and He is not swayed by sentimentality. He responds swiftly to obedience and may stay His hand if we persist in disobedience. Our lives are fleeting; we can either mar them through rebellion or enhance them by submitting wholly to God. The disciples’ obedience in the upper room made them carriers of divine revelation to an entire generation. They encountered the Holy Spirit and were forever transformed. Their legacy continues to inspire us generation after generation.
Likewise, we who have also been entrusted with the gospel, must obey and leave a lasting impact. We, who are called to impact nations, cannot underestimate the necessity of being led by the Holy Spirit in all our dealings. Our prayers and preaching have the potential to turn the hearts of governments back to God, leading to godly legislation and deliverance from darkness and oppression for entire nations.
But how can God entrust His power to a disobedient people? It’s time to shift our focus. Instead of trying to manipulate God to fulfill our desires, let’s commit to doing what He wants, to a life of total obedience. His purpose is of infinite value and significance and must be our raison d’être. Obedience must be second nature to us because we live for something greater—Someone greater than ourselves. Since we live for God, we must live in obedience to God.