The Courage to Obey
OPENING PRAYER:
Gracious God, grant us the courage to obey Your commands, even when they challenge us. May we trust in Your wisdom and follow Your lead, confident in Your plans for our lives.
"Sisera, meanwhile, fled on foot to the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, because there was an alliance between Jabin king of Hazor and the family of Heber the Kenite. Jael went out to meet Sisera and said to him, 'Come, my lord, come right in. Don’t be afraid.' So he entered her tent, and she covered him with a blanket. 'I’m thirsty,' he said. 'Please give me some water.' She opened a skin of milk, gave him a drink, and covered him up. 'Stand in the doorway of the tent,' he told her. 'If someone comes by and asks you, "Is anyone in there?" say "No."' But Jael, Heber’s wife, picked up a tent peg and a hammer and went quietly to him while he lay fast asleep, exhausted. She drove the peg through his temple into the ground, and he died."
Judges 4:17-21 (NIV)
REFLECT:
The story of Jael is a surprising twist in the narrative, highlighting the unexpected ways God accomplishes His purposes. Pastor Elliott noted that Jael's actions were driven by a deep understanding of the oppression Sisera represented. Her courage to act decisively, despite the risks, is a powerful example of obedience to God's call.
Jael's story challenges us to consider the ways God might be calling us to act courageously in our own lives. Rodney emphasized that God often uses unexpected people and means to fulfill His plans. Jael, a seemingly ordinary woman, played a crucial role in Israel's victory. Her willingness to act when the opportunity arose is a reminder that God can use anyone who is willing to obey.
Rodney’s message encourages us to reflect on the opportunities God places before us. Are we willing to act with courage, even when the path is uncertain? Jael's story is a testament to the power of obedience and the impact one person can have when they choose to follow God's lead. Rodney’s call to immediate obedience is a challenge to trust that God is at work, even when we cannot see the full picture.
As you reflect on this passage, consider the areas where God is calling you to act with courage. What steps can you take to obey His call, trusting that He will use your actions for His purposes? Remember, God often works through the unexpected, and your obedience can have a lasting impact.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will listen for God's instructions and act on them immediately.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Father, thank You for the courage to obey Your call. Help us to trust in Your wisdom and to act with boldness, knowing that You are at work in our lives. Amen.