obedienceWe understand the importance of obedience in our lives, but how do you respond when it’s hard to obey?  There are times in my life when I know what I should do, but I prefer to go my own way – especially when the way of obedience is difficult.

That was the situation that Daniel and his friends faced when they were brought to Babylon.  They were strangers in a strange land and they were expected to follow the rules and mores of the the land or face significant consequences.  Daniel however, was more concerned about being obedient to God,

 But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s choice food or with the wine which he drank; so he sought permission from the commander of the officials that he might not defile himself.  (Daniel 1:8)

Daniel literally purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself, but that he would remain true to God regardless of the consequences.  Daniel was a man of integrity who followed God regardless of the cost.  Even when he was old, Daniel was obedient to his God,

 Now when Daniel knew that the document was signed, he entered his house (now in his roof chamber he had windows open toward Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling on his knees three times a day, praying and giving thanks before his God, as he had been doing previously.  (Daniel 6:10)

Daniel’s obedience resulted in him being thrown into a lion’s den, but God preserved his life.   His commitment to prayer is demonstrated in this blog post on Oak Trees and Kudzu.

You must realize however, that the cost of obedience is small compared with the cost of disobedience.  There will be times in your life when your obedience to God will result in consequences for doing what is right.  Joseph was thrown into prison for fleeing from sexual temptation.  You too may pay the price for doing what is right, but remember that God is with you and the price of obedience will be worth the cost.  Are you willing to pay the price to follow God?

 

RickAssociate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

Follow me on twitter:  rickhiggins5