Embracing Obedience to God

Aug 25, 2024

Take quiz

Review flashcards

Lecture Notes: "The Courage to Obey" by Dr. Charles Stanley

Introduction

  • Main Theme: Obedience to God
    • Obeying God is always the right and wisest action, though not always easy.
    • Complete trust in God leads to blessings and guidance.

Biblical Foundation

  • Scripture Reference: Joshua 1:1-9
    • Context: Joshua leading Israel into the Promised Land after Moses' death.
    • Emphasized commands to Joshua: "Be strong and courageous" repeated multiple times by God.

Key Messages

  • Challenges of Obedience:

    • Obeying God might involve pain, suffering, rejection, or loss.
    • Importance of trust in God’s plan and promises.

  • God's Promises to Joshua:

    • Assurance of victory and divine presence.
    • Specific territorial promises.

  • Obligation to Meditate on the Word:

    • Continuous meditation leads to prosperity and success.
    • Meditation involves understanding God’s messages and applying them to life.

Application of Obedience

  • Modern Application:

    • The message to Joshua applies to contemporary believers.
    • Encouragement to lead a courageous and prosperous life through faith.

  • Practical Steps:

    • Meditate on the Word continuously.
    • Reflect on personal life alignment with God’s Word.

Effects of Meditation on God's Word

  1. Quiets the Spirit: Calm in times of worry and distress.
  2. Purifies the Heart: Reveals personal shortcomings and areas for improvement.
  3. Sharpens Perception: Enhances understanding of God’s will.
  4. Provides Clarity and Direction: Ensures clear decision-making in life’s challenges.
  5. Increases Faith: Builds confidence in God’s promises.
  6. Guides to Success: Directs towards fulfilling God’s purpose.

Conclusion

  • Personal Reflection:
    • Are you following God’s calling for you?
    • Importance of aligning choices with God’s Word.
    • Obedience results in divine prosperity and success.

Final Thought

  • Quote:

    • "When a man or a woman has the conviction that he or she is doing the work God gave him or her to do, there is a zeal and a courage in his or her soul that all the forces of this world cannot destroy."

  • Call to Action:

    • Reflect on personal obedience to God.
    • Meditate regularly on the scriptures to strengthen faith and achieve success.