1 Samuel 15: 22

Heather Bellamy
Heather Bellamy

Have you ever heard the voice of God?

What should our response be when we hear Him, however big or small what is said may seem?

Does it really matter anyway?

I would like to put it to you that it does matter and that the path of a Christian is the path of obedience; obedience to the voice of our God and submission to His ways.

'Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.' 1 Samuel 15: 22

How do we do what it says in 1 Samuel, how do we be obedient?

By crossing the pain barrier and following through with John 12: 25:

'The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.'

When we hear Him speak it usually requires faith to respond and be obedient, meaning we might need to go against our fears, our insecurities, our pride, to fulfil what He has asked of us. This can hurt us and does mean that we lose our life in favour of Gods ways. If it costs you something to be obedient, be encouraged, that is normal and Biblical, don't be afraid of the cost and don't let this test stop you coming into all that God has for you.

The way God has set things up is very empowering for every one of us. Obedience isn't a magic dust sprinkled on us from on high, it is a choice, our choice and one that God can't make for us.

The next question is surely, is it worth it?

From experience and from what the Bible says, again I would have to yell as loud as I can, 'yes it is!'

To be obedient to God is to walk on a safe, straight path through life, to know that you are fulfilling all you were created for, to have destiny and purpose.

To be obedient to God is to have relationship with Him, to see Him, to please Him.

God's voice is the most beautiful voice you will ever hear. How can we do anything but choose to follow Him?

When you die and you hear that voice, Jesus longs to say to you, 'Well done, good and faithful servant.' CR

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.