Stop Making Excuses and Embrace Obedience

Introduction
We all have a tendency to make excuses when faced with challenges or responsibilities. Whether it's in our personal lives or our spiritual journey, excuses can hinder our growth and prevent us from fulfilling our purpose. In this article, we will explore the importance of obedience and the detrimental effects of making excuses. Let's dive in and discover how we can stop making excuses and embrace obedience in our lives.

The Great Commission and Our Excuses
The Great Commission is a call to action for all believers, urging us to spread the message of God's love and salvation to the ends of the earth. However, many of us find ourselves making excuses when it comes to fulfilling this mission. Just like Moses in the Bible, we come up with various reasons why we are not the right person for the task at hand.

Excuse #1: "I'm not the right person"
One common excuse we make is thinking that we are not the right person for the job. We feel inadequate and believe that someone else would be better suited for the task. But just like Moses, who initially doubted his abilities, we need to remember that God chooses us for a reason. He knows our strengths, our weaknesses, and how we can make a difference in the lives of others.

Excuse #2: "What if?"
The "what if" excuse is another hurdle we often face. We worry about the possible challenges and roadblocks we might encounter along the way. We fear rejection, failure, or even the unknown. But instead of focusing on the "what if's," we should trust in God's guidance and provision. He promises to be with us every step of the way, even in the face of uncertainty.

Excuse #3: "I'm not good enough"
Feeling inadequate is a common excuse that holds many of us back. We doubt our abilities and question whether we are worthy of the task at hand. But God doesn't call the equipped; He equips the called. He sees beyond our flaws and weaknesses, and He empowers us to do His work. We need to let go of our insecurities and trust in His strength and provision.

The Importance of Obedience
Now that we have addressed the excuses that often hinder our obedience let's explore why obedience is so crucial in our walk with God.

Obedience Brings Glory to God
One of the primary reasons God calls us to obedience is to bring glory to His name. In Psalm 67:3-4, it says, "Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon earth." When we obey God's commands and fulfill His purposes, we become a testament to His faithfulness and goodness. Through our obedience, we can lead others to praise and worship Him.

Obedience Leads to Personal Growth
Another reason why obedience is crucial is that it leads to personal growth. When we step out in faith and obey God's calling, we allow Him to work in and through us. It is in the act of obedience that we experience His transformative power. As we face challenges and overcome obstacles, our faith strengthens, and our character develops. Obedience is the catalyst for personal growth and spiritual maturity.

Obedience Opens Doors for Blessings
Lastly, obedience opens doors for blessings in our lives. When we align our will with God's will and obey His commands, He pours out His blessings upon us. This doesn't mean that life will be perfect or free from trials, but it means that God will provide for our needs, guide our steps, and bless us abundantly. Obedience positions us to receive the fullness of God's blessings and favor.

Embracing Obedience in Our Lives
Now that we understand the importance of obedience and the consequences of making excuses let's explore practical ways to embrace obedience in our daily lives.

Surrendering to God's Will
The first step in embracing obedience is surrendering to God's will. We need to let go of our own desires and submit ourselves to His plans and purposes. This requires humility, trust, and a willingness to follow wherever He leads us.

Seeking God's Guidance
To walk in obedience, we must seek God's guidance through prayer, reading His Word, and listening to the Holy Spirit. God will reveal His will to us if we earnestly seek Him. By staying connected to Him, we can discern His voice and follow His instructions.

Overcoming Fear and Insecurity
Fear and insecurity often hinder our obedience. We need to confront these emotions and replace them with trust and confidence in God's faithfulness. Remember that He is with us, empowering us to overcome any obstacle that stands in our way.

Surrounding Ourselves with Supportive Community
Having a supportive community of believers is essential in our obedience journey. They can encourage, challenge, and hold us accountable. By surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals, we can find strength and inspiration to continue walking in obedience.

Stepping Out in Faith
Lastly, embracing obedience requires us to step out in faith. We must be willing to take risks, even in the face of uncertainty. As we trust in God's guidance and provision, He will honor our obedience and lead us to fulfill His purposes.

Conclusion
In conclusion, obedience is essential in our walk with God. We must let go of our excuses and embrace the call to obedience, just as Moses did. By surrendering to God's will, seeking His guidance, overcoming fear and insecurity, surrounding ourselves with a supportive community, and stepping out in faith, we can fulfill the Great Commission and experience personal growth and blessings along the way. So, let's stop making excuses and start embracing obedience in our lives today.

This recap is from Great Week 2: G-Go, The Vision | Luke 24:44-47. Check out the full sermon below from Senior Pastor Dr. Roger Patterson.