What role does obedience play in experiencing God's miracles, as seen in John 9:11? Scene snapshot: John 9:11 “ ‘The man they call Jesus made mud, spread it on my eyes, and told me, ‘Go to Siloam and wash.’ So I went and washed, and then I could see.’ ” What obedience looked like for the blind man • He listened to Jesus’ specific instruction. • He acted immediately—no delay or debate. • He followed the command completely—he went all the way to Siloam and washed. • He did so in faith, though still blind and unable to confirm any result beforehand. Why obedience mattered in this miracle • It positioned him where Jesus had promised the blessing. • It demonstrated trust; faith is proved genuine when it moves the feet (James 2:17). • It separated him from the crowd of skeptics and aligned him with Christ. • It became the catalyst God used to display His glory (John 9:3). A consistent pattern in Scripture • John 2:7-9 – Servants fill the jars “to the brim,” water becomes wine. • Luke 5:4-6 – Peter lets down the nets at Jesus’ word, catches a multitude of fish. • 2 Kings 5:10-14 – Naaman dips seven times in the Jordan, skin is restored. • Exodus 14:15-16 – Moses lifts his staff, the sea parts. • Acts 9:6 – Saul enters Damascus, receives sight and commissioning. In each case, simple but precise obedience precedes the supernatural act. Key truths about obedience and God’s miracles • Obedience does not earn the miracle; it aligns us with God’s stated will. • God often attaches a command to His promise so faith is expressed tangibly. • Miracles reveal God’s sovereignty, yet He delights to involve human response (Philippians 2:12-13). • Partial obedience stalls blessing; complete obedience invites fullness (1 Samuel 15:22). Living this out today 1. Seek God’s clear word first—through Scripture and the Spirit’s prompting. 2. Respond promptly, even when the command seems ordinary or inconvenient. 3. Refuse half-measures; finish what He asks. 4. Expect His glory to be revealed in His timing and way, resting in His character. Takeaway Miracles spring from God’s power alone, yet He repeatedly chooses the pathway of obedient faith. Like the man who washed in Siloam, we step into the miraculous when we take Jesus at His word and simply do what He says. |
    |