The Nearness of God Leads to Obedience
Obedience isn’t easy. Especially when it requires surrendering control. But the nearness of God—His constant presence—is what equips us to obey. Joshua is a powerful example. He was the one God chose to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land after Moses. At the very beginning of his calling, God told him: “Be strong and courageous.” Why? Because God was going to be with him every step of the way. God never makes us do anything alone. We’re the ones who often choose to go it alone, forgetting that He’s right there with us, waiting for us to lean on Him. Joshua didn’t rely on his own strength—he relied on God’s presence. He walked in obedience even when it meant facing the unknown. And God showed up–again and again. So why is it so hard for us? Why do we cling so tightly to control, even when Scripture is filled with example after example of God’s faithfulness? The proof is there: God provides. He equips. He goes before us. But our desire for control makes us blind to what He’s already done and what He’s ready to do again. True obedience requires surrender. And yes—it can be uncomfortable. But there is peace that comes with obedience. There is blessing that follows surrender. Think about the Israelites as they approached the Jordan River, the final barrier before entering the Promised Land. The river was raging, impassable. But they carried the Ark of the Covenant—the symbol of God’s presence—and stepped forward in faith. And what happened? The waters parted. Just like He did at the Red Sea, God made a way. They walked into their promise because they walked in obedience. Walking in obedience won’t always be easy. But when you trust God, when you step forward with faith like Joshua, you’ll find that He provides all the strength He requires of you. Every time. So… what’s holding you back? Let it go. Step forward. Be strong. Be courageous. Walk in obedience—because God is with you.
When It’s Hard To Trust God’s Plan
Trusting God’s Plan Whether you are the type of person who goes through life with a solid plan (and backup plan) or you fly by the seat of your pants, most of us would agree that sometimes life throws you a curveball. You have probably encountered something unexpected that seemingly tossed you off course. Perhaps it was a shifting relationship, a job loss, a health scare, or something else that left you feeling lost and uncertain. Have you found it hard to trust God’s plan? Do you find yourself questioning God? What if I told you that God welcomes your questions. When we encounter the unexpected, we often perceive it as a barrier. But in that, we are forgetting the greatness of God and His plans. Fortunately, nothing can disrupt God’s plan for us! If He establishes a barrier, He wants us to pivot. He is not keeping us from our purpose, He is ensuring it. Romans 8:28 reminds us, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” But in the pridefulness of life, we forget to trust Him wholly. Fortunately, God is not afraid of you or your questions. He welcomes them when we allow them to bring us into a closer relationship with Him. His desire is for a close and personal relationship with every one of us. He knows that through our questions we can seek Him, find Him, and discover His plans for us. Purpose of Waiting Sometimes we grow anxious and weary as we await His great reveal. However, this waiting season is purposeful. It is preparation and, as followers, we benefit from using it wisely by growing our relationship with Christ and remaining obedient. Scripture promises us that. He is growing, pushing, and preparing you because Psalm 139:14 tells us we are, “fearfully and wonderfully made.” His plan for you is a special journey meant only for you. You will be called upon to carry out tasks that others are not equipped to do. He Understands While our journeys will be unique to each of us, we know they will be filled with triumphs and hardships alike. Changes to our plans can leave us feeling devastated and lost. But we can find rest and comfort in knowing our Christ the Lord lived as a man. He understands our struggles and not once has said this would be easy. What He wants are our obedience and trust. He is asking us to submit to His plan and carry out his work. We are truly doing the Lord’s work in obeying and trusting His plan. If you find yourself struggling, remember to seek a relationship with Him daily, especially when you are questioning Him. Remember that He isn’t afraid of your questions. He knows His plan for you is a great one. Spend time with Him in prayer. Read the Word. And take time to listen and look at what He is saying to you. Psalm 40:1 says: “I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry.” If you invest in your relationship with him, you are certain to see His faithfulness. The Village also offers opportunities to help you in your walk with Christ. In addition to Sunday messages, we encourage you to Serve Experience Rooted Join a Lifegroup