I had a conversation with a Christian Minister today and we had a great discussion time encouraging each other in our walk with God, our family and our ministry. In the midst of a short yet fruitful sharing, we chanced upon the topic on obeying God.

This conversation triggered my memory of what I wrote in my journal a few months ago.

I was in the process of making a decision and different people had offered their well meaning advice. I was torn in between obeying God and trying to please men. It was during this time of tension when God spoke, “What is popular is not always godly.” Immediately, that brought clarity in my spirit and I knew deep down inside, God had confirmed that I was to obey Him wholeheartedly as contrary to popular thinking.

In no way am I against seeking council from people whom we respect. I am 100% for it. We must seek God, seek inputs from godly people around us and make a decision accordingly. But sometimes, in the process of weighing your options, the temptation to choose the easy way out is so attractive. I am sure you can also identify with that.

Yet, this is the time we need to be reminded that popular opinions may not always be God’s opinions. As disciples, we must allow His word to take centrality in our lives. That means we are to obey even when it is inconvenient, difficult and unpopular.

In reading Deuteronomy 28, I felt God reminding me not to be too casual when it comes to the things of God. We often fall into the trap of carrying a frivolous attitude when it comes to Christianity; especially with regards to God’s commandments. We go for every session of impartation, anointing, blessing, prayers for business breakthroughs but when it comes to plain obedience, we tend to make come out with 101 excuses. This is our HUMAN NATURE - unredeemed and unsanctified. But we don’t have to remain that way. Choose God, choose obedience and choose life.

God’s word clearly exhorts us that obedience is of great importance for a Christian.

Here are some principles I have learnt from Deuteronomy 28:

1. Obedience must be wholly from the heart. Lip services don’t count much in God’s kingdom.

2. Obedience cannot be partial. Partial obedience is still disobedience.

3. Full obedience leads to careful attention to God’s commands. Our attitude to God’s commands matters alot.

4. Full obedience releases the blessings of God.

Friends, obedience brings pleasure to our Father - that should be our aim as children of God. Obedience also brings blessings. So, make this your personal commitment today and live a life of obedience unto JESUS. 

Here’s my prayer, use them as your own too.

“Lord, let me grow in absolute obedience. Let me live a surrendered life. Teach me to live according to Your opinions rather than the “popular thinking” of this world. Place a desire within me to be LIKE YOU- one who remained obedient to the Father, His will even to the extent of death. Make me an obedient servant today.” AMEN!

Blessings in JESUS,

Rev. Bryan Tan

Bryan Tan Ministries

Lifting People into their Destinies