“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV)
Obedience to God often comes at a price. It’s not always the easy path, nor is it typically the popular one. When God calls us to follow Him in ways that defy conventional wisdom or societal norms, we often find ourselves facing two formidable opponents: ridicule from others and doubt from within.
The story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho presents a powerful illustration of this challenge. Imagine being in Joshua’s sandals for a moment. You’re tasked with conquering a fortified city, and God’s battle plan involves… marching? And trumpets? And shouting? It’s not exactly a strategy you’d find in any military handbook.
As the Israelites began their unusual march around Jericho, they likely faced both external ridicule and internal doubt. From the walls of Jericho, one can almost hear the taunts and jeers of the city’s defenders. “Look at these fools, just walking around! What do they think they’re going to accomplish?” Day after day, as nothing seemed to change, the Israelites themselves might have begun to question: “Are we sure we heard God correctly? This doesn’t seem to be working.”
In our own lives, obedience to God often invites similar reactions. When we choose to forgive someone who’s wronged us, the world might call us weak. When we prioritize our faith over career advancement, society might label us foolish. When we stand for biblical values in a culture that’s moving in the opposite direction, we might face not just ridicule, but outright hostility.
Internally, doubt can be an even more insidious enemy. We might find ourselves wondering, “Am I really hearing God correctly? What if I’m wrong? What if this doesn’t work out?” It’s in these moments that we must remind ourselves of God’s faithfulness and the truth of His Word.
The Greek word for ‘obedience’ in the New Testament is ‘hypakoē,’ which literally means ‘to hear under.’ It implies listening attentively and submitting to what is heard. True obedience, then, isn’t just about following rules, but about tuning our ears to God’s voice and aligning our actions with His will, regardless of the consequences or opinions of others.
Jesus himself faced ridicule and doubt throughout His ministry. He was called a glutton, a drunkard, and accused of being in league with the devil. Even His own family thought He was out of His mind at one point (Mark 3:21). Yet, He remained obedient to the Father’s will, even to the point of death on a cross.
“Obedience is the fruit of faith; patience is the early blossom on the tree of faith.” – Christina Rossetti (1830-1894), English poet known for her devotional writings and faith-inspired poetry. This quote reminds us that obedience and patience often go hand in hand, especially when God’s plans don’t unfold according to our timeline.
When obedience to God brings ridicule or doubt into your life, remember the walls of Jericho. For six days, nothing seemed to change. But on the seventh day, when the people shouted as they had been commanded, the walls came crashing down. God’s power was revealed, and His purposes were fulfilled through the obedience of His people.
What areas of your life require steadfast obedience in the face of ridicule or doubt? How can you remain faithful to God’s calling, even when it doesn’t make sense to the world around you? Remember, what seems foolish to the world is often the very means by which God demonstrates His wisdom and power.
Godseekers, as you go forth this week, remember that obedience to God, while challenging, is always worth it. Your act of faith, no matter how small it may seem, can be the first step towards seeing walls fall in your life and witnessing God’s power in action. Stand firm, trust in His plan, and watch as He works wonders through your obedience.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we confess that obedience isn’t always easy. When Your ways don’t align with the world’s expectations, give us the courage to stand firm. Help us to trust Your voice above the ridicule of others and the doubts in our own minds. Strengthen our faith, Lord, that we might obey You wholeheartedly, even when the path seems uncertain. May our lives be a testimony to Your faithfulness and power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Personal Reflection
- Recall a time when obeying God opened you up to ridicule or criticism. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from that experience?
- What current situation in your life is challenging your obedience to God? What doubts or fears are you struggling with?
- How has God proved faithful in the past when you’ve stepped out in obedience despite uncertainty?
Step of Faith
This week, identify one area where God is calling you to obedience that may invite criticism or seem foolish to others. It might be forgiving someone, taking a stand for your faith at work, or making a lifestyle change that honors God. Commit to taking one concrete step in obedience, regardless of potential ridicule or your own doubts.
