In what ways can we ensure we "observe all" God commands us? \Setting the Scene\ “...teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) Jesus’ words close the Great Commission with a sweeping expectation: obedience to everything He has said. That single sentence invites a lifetime of wholehearted response. How do we make sure we actually do it? \Why “all” matters\ • Partial obedience is still disobedience (1 Samuel 15:22-23). • Obedience proves love for Christ (John 14:15). • Walking in His commands assures us we truly know Him (1 John 2:3-6). \Stay anchored in the Word\ • Daily reading plan – take in the whole counsel of God, not just favorite passages (Psalm 119:97). • Scripture memorization – store truth for on-the-spot guidance (Psalm 119:11). • Meditation – linger over what God says until it shapes thinking and desire (Joshua 1:8). • Topical study – trace every command on a subject (e.g., speech, generosity, purity) to catch “all” He requires. \Depend on the Spirit’s power\ • The flesh cannot produce sustained obedience (Romans 8:7-8). • The Spirit writes the law on our hearts and enables us to walk in it (Ezekiel 36:27; Galatians 5:16). • Ask Him to illuminate Scripture, convict quickly, and strengthen resolve (John 16:13). \Engage accountable community\ • Early church pattern: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching” together (Acts 2:42). • Regular fellowship spurs mutual obedience (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Invite trusted believers to speak into specific areas—marriage, finances, attitudes, entertainment. \Practice immediate application\ • Read-respond rhythm: every time Scripture speaks, write one concrete step and act on it that day (James 1:22). • Keep a journal of victories and failures; review to spot patterns. • Celebrate small wins; repentance and restart when you miss the mark (Proverbs 24:16). \Cultivate a teachable heart\ • “Search me, O God, and know my heart” posture (Psalm 139:23-24). • Humility to receive correction—whether from preaching, friends, or circumstances (Proverbs 9:8-9). • Willingness to adjust long-held habits or preferences when Scripture confronts them (Mark 7:8-9). \Use Scriptural guardrails\ • Filter every choice through 1 Corinthians 10:31—does it glorify God? • Ask Philippians 4:8 questions—does it meet the standard of truth, purity, loveliness? • Keep eternity in view—2 Corinthians 5:10 reminds obedience will be evaluated. \Remember Christ’s presence\ • The command comes with a promise: “I am with you always.” His nearness fuels courage and perseverance. • When obedience feels costly, recall Hebrews 12:2—He endured the cross for the joy ahead; follow His example. \Putting it together\ 1. Read the Word thoroughly. 2. Rely on the Spirit continually. 3. Walk with believers openly. 4. Apply truth immediately. 5. Stay humble and guarded. 6. Lean on Jesus’ constant presence. Living this pattern keeps us on course to “observe all” He commands—joyful disciples who show the world what wholehearted allegiance to Christ looks like. |
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