Perseverance in Obedience: Trusting God's Timing

 

Summary

In 2016, Aaron and I embarked on a challenging journey when our daughter's charter school took us to court, attempting to prove they could meet her educational needs without external placement. Despite having a strong team, we faced multiple legal defeats over four years. This experience taught us about perseverance and obedience to God's calling, even when immediate results were not evident. Similarly, Moses was called to confront Pharaoh, a daunting task that initially led to increased hardship for the Israelites. Yet, Moses and Aaron remained faithful, demonstrating that obedience to God often involves facing resistance and trials before witnessing His deliverance.

Moses's story in Exodus 5 illustrates that obedience to God does not guarantee instant victory. Instead, it often leads to resistance, as seen when Pharaoh hardened his heart and increased the Israelites' burdens. This resistance can be disheartening, but it is a reminder that we are challenging the powers of darkness. Like Moses, we must persist in faith, trusting that God will fulfill His promises in His timing. Our obedience can lead to a deeper relationship with God, as we learn to dwell in His presence and rely on His strength.

The journey of obedience is not without its challenges. It requires unshakable faith and a willingness to confront injustice, even when the outcome is uncertain. Historical examples, such as the civil rights activists on Bloody Sunday, show that steadfast commitment to justice can lead to societal transformation, despite initial resistance. Similarly, Father Silas Habib's obedience to God's prompting to store food for his congregation in Gaza demonstrates the power of faith in action, even when the reasons are not immediately clear.

Ultimately, our hope lies in Christ, not in earthly systems or outcomes. As we face challenges and confront powers that oppose us, we must remember that our identity is rooted in Christ. Obedience to God positions us to witness His power, even if it unfolds gradually. We are called to trust in God's timing and remain faithful, knowing that our obedience can impact others' freedom and well-being. As we navigate our own journeys, let us be available and obedient to God's calling, trusting that He will use us to showcase His divine power in a world full of darkness and injustice.

Key Takeaways:

1. Obedience to God often leads to resistance and trials before deliverance. Moses and Aaron faced increased hardship when confronting Pharaoh, reminding us that challenging the powers of darkness requires perseverance and faith. [07:00]

2. Our hope lies in Christ, not in earthly systems or outcomes. As we face challenges, we must remember that our identity is rooted in Christ, which changes how we engage with our circumstances and live out our callings. [16:17]

3. Historical examples, like the civil rights activists on Bloody Sunday, show that steadfast commitment to justice can lead to societal transformation, despite initial resistance. Our obedience can impact others' freedom and well-being. [11:03]

4. Obedience to God positions us to witness His power, even if it unfolds gradually. We must trust in God's timing and remain faithful, knowing that our obedience can lead to a deeper relationship with Him. [23:18]

5. When God calls us to act, our obedience demonstrates our trust in His ultimate victory. Like Moses, we may not know how the story will unfold, but we can trust the deliverer and remain faithful to His calling. [26:08]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:36] - The Unexpected Journey Begins
- [01:09] - Legal Battles and Setbacks
- [02:01] - Moses's Call to Confront Pharaoh
- [03:31] - Moses and Aaron's First Confrontation
- [04:21] - Pharaoh's Resistance
- [05:10] - God's Assurance to Moses
- [06:00] - Increased Hardship for the Israelites
- [07:00] - Obedience and Resistance
- [09:23] - Embracing Resistance
- [11:03] - Historical Examples of Perseverance
- [13:17] - Father Silas Habib's Obedience
- [15:29] - Hope in Christ Amidst Challenges
- [17:35] - Obedience Unlocks God's Power
- [23:18] - Trusting God's Timing
- [26:08] - The Call to Obedience

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Exodus 5:1-23
- Exodus 6:1-8

Observation Questions:
1. What was the initial reaction of Pharaoh when Moses and Aaron delivered God's message to let the Israelites go? How did this affect the Israelites? [04:04]
2. How did Moses respond to the increased hardship faced by the Israelites after his confrontation with Pharaoh? [04:52]
3. What assurance did God give to Moses despite the initial setbacks and resistance from Pharaoh? [05:10]
4. How did the Israelites react to Moses's message from God after their burdens were increased? [06:29]

Interpretation Questions:
1. What does the story of Moses and Aaron confronting Pharaoh teach about the nature of obedience to God, especially when facing resistance? [07:00]
2. How does the sermon illustrate the concept of perseverance in faith through the examples of Moses and historical figures like civil rights activists? [11:03]
3. In what ways does the sermon suggest that obedience to God can lead to a deeper relationship with Him, even when immediate results are not visible? [23:18]
4. How does the sermon connect the idea of obedience to God with the hope and identity found in Christ? [16:17]

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you faced resistance or hardship after obeying what you believed was God's calling. How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience? [07:00]
2. The sermon mentions that our hope lies in Christ, not in earthly systems. How does this perspective change the way you approach challenges in your life? [16:17]
3. Consider the historical example of the civil rights activists on Bloody Sunday. How can their perseverance inspire you to remain committed to justice and obedience in your own life? [11:03]
4. When have you experienced a delay in seeing the results of your obedience to God? How did you maintain your faith during that time? [23:18]
5. The sermon highlights the importance of trusting in God's timing. What practical steps can you take to cultivate patience and trust in God's plan for your life? [23:18]
6. How can you be more available and obedient to God's calling in your daily life, even when the reasons are not immediately clear? [26:08]
7. Identify an area in your life where you feel God is calling you to act. What is holding you back, and how can you overcome these obstacles to step into that calling? [26:44]

Devotional

Day 1: Perseverance in Obedience
Obedience to God often leads to resistance and trials before deliverance. Moses and Aaron faced increased hardship when confronting Pharaoh, reminding us that challenging the powers of darkness requires perseverance and faith. When God calls us to act, it may not always result in immediate success or relief. Instead, we might encounter obstacles and setbacks that test our resolve and faith. However, these challenges are not without purpose. They serve as opportunities for growth and a deeper reliance on God's strength and promises. As we persist in obedience, we learn to trust in God's ultimate plan and timing, knowing that He is working behind the scenes to bring about His deliverance. [07:00]

Exodus 5:22-23 (ESV): "Then Moses turned to the Lord and said, 'O Lord, why have you done evil to this people? Why did you ever send me? For since I came to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has done evil to this people, and you have not delivered your people at all.'"

Reflection: Think of a situation where you are facing resistance in your obedience to God. How can you persevere in faith, trusting that God is working even when you cannot see immediate results?


Day 2: Identity Rooted in Christ
Our hope lies in Christ, not in earthly systems or outcomes. As we face challenges, we must remember that our identity is rooted in Christ, which changes how we engage with our circumstances and live out our callings. When we anchor our identity in Christ, we gain a perspective that transcends the temporary struggles and uncertainties of this world. This identity empowers us to navigate life's challenges with confidence and peace, knowing that our ultimate hope and security are found in Him. By focusing on Christ, we can approach our circumstances with a sense of purpose and resilience, trusting that He is guiding us through every trial. [16:17]

Colossians 3:2-3 (ESV): "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God."

Reflection: In what ways can you shift your focus from earthly outcomes to your identity in Christ today? How might this change your approach to a current challenge?


Day 3: Commitment to Justice
Historical examples, like the civil rights activists on Bloody Sunday, show that steadfast commitment to justice can lead to societal transformation, despite initial resistance. Our obedience can impact others' freedom and well-being. When we stand firm in our commitment to justice, we align ourselves with God's heart for righteousness and equity. This commitment often requires courage and perseverance, as we may face opposition and setbacks along the way. However, history has shown that such steadfastness can lead to significant change and transformation, both in our communities and in the lives of those we seek to serve. By remaining faithful to God's call for justice, we become instruments of His love and grace in a world that desperately needs it. [11:03]

Isaiah 1:17 (ESV): "Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause."

Reflection: Consider a specific injustice you feel called to address. What steps can you take today to actively pursue justice in this area, trusting that your efforts can lead to transformation?


Day 4: Witnessing God's Power
Obedience to God positions us to witness His power, even if it unfolds gradually. We must trust in God's timing and remain faithful, knowing that our obedience can lead to a deeper relationship with Him. As we walk in obedience, we open ourselves to experiencing God's power and presence in profound ways. This journey often requires patience and trust, as God's plans may not align with our immediate expectations. However, as we remain faithful, we begin to see glimpses of His work in our lives and the lives of those around us. This process not only strengthens our faith but also deepens our relationship with God, as we learn to rely on His wisdom and strength. [23:18]

Habakkuk 2:3 (ESV): "For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay."

Reflection: Reflect on a time when you witnessed God's power through obedience. How can you continue to trust in His timing and remain faithful in your current circumstances?


Day 5: Trusting the Deliverer
When God calls us to act, our obedience demonstrates our trust in His ultimate victory. Like Moses, we may not know how the story will unfold, but we can trust the deliverer and remain faithful to His calling. Obedience is an act of faith that acknowledges God's sovereignty and goodness, even when the path ahead is uncertain. By choosing to trust the deliverer, we affirm our belief in His ability to bring about His purposes in our lives and the world. This trust enables us to step out in faith, confident that God is with us and will guide us through every challenge. As we remain faithful to His calling, we become participants in His redemptive work, witnessing His victory in ways we could never have imagined. [26:08]

Psalm 37:5-6 (ESV): "Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to trust God as the deliverer? How can you demonstrate this trust through obedience today?

Quotes

"In 2016 Aaron and I set out on an unexpected journey that we thought might only take a few months once it began. In an unusual twist of protocol, the charter school that our daughter was attending took us to court. It was a preemptive strike to try and prove that the school could meet her needs and that she did not need a state-funded or district-funded placement. And as we embarked on this journey, we had a great team. We had one of the best educational consultants, one of the most well-versed lawyers for special education in the nation. And yet, even with the best team, we lost the first hearing." [00:22:14]

"Similarly, Moses was called to confront the oppressive giant powers of his day for his people. And it was not an easy task. As we continue to march through the book of the Exodus today, we're going to see how Moses and his brother Aaron responded to the call of God to confront Pharaoh and how it was not very straightforward. But let me first remind us of where we've been so far. Moses was a baby rescued during a genocide. He was adopted by the Pharaoh's daughter even though Pharaoh was the author of the genocide." [00:118:12]

"Pharaoh is completely unimpressed. He basically says to them, 'God of who? I've never heard of him. And if I had, why would I listen to some desert deity?' Nope. The Israelite slaves are staying put. Well, Moses and Aaron press on, trying to explain that this is serious business. God isn't just asking; he's demanding. But Pharaoh is not in the mood for divine ultimatums. Instead of relenting, he actually doubles down and makes life much, much harder for the Israelites." [00:235:47]

"So what do we do when obedience to God results in increased hardship instead of immediate breakthrough? When we confront power, it will inevitably result in resistance. Whether it's the powers of this earthly world or the powers of darkness, which can often be seen as one and the same, resistance is almost always guaranteed. Until the return of Christ, we are faced with living in a world where the kingdom of darkness, aka the enemy, Satan, Lucifer, the devil, the father of lies, the serpent—he has many awful names—but he has the freedom to rule and reign through the systems and the people of our world." [00:417:12]

"On March 7th, 1965, about 600 civil rights activists led by John Lewis and Josea Williams set out to march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, demanding voting rights for black Americans. As they crossed the Edmund Pettis Bridge, state troopers and local police brutally attacked them with clubs, tear gas, and whips. The activists faced violent resistance from authorities. However, they remained committed to their calls and they continued in a posture of nonviolent resistance." [00:590:36]

"When God calls us to act, standing up for the voiceless and other injustices, our obedience to God demonstrates our trust in his final and ultimate victory that comes through the death and resurrection of Jesus. So, obedience doesn't promise instant victory, but obedience demands an unshakable faith. Moses started feeling the walls closing in after basically being laughed out of the room by Pharaoh, then watching his people suffer even worse as a result of his actions, and then beginning to see his people start to turn against him." [00:689:21]

"Moses was honest with God. He felt discouraged. He had doubts and he had questioned God when the situation worsened. But he brought his doubts and questions to the Lord and ultimately trusted that God would come through as he said he would. Doubts and questions are natural, but the hope is that those doubts and questions would lead us back through prayer to renewed relationship and trust in the Lord." [00:737:02]

"In the middle of 2022, Father Silas Habib, the priest at the Greek Orthodox Church in Gaza, heard from the Lord to start storing enough food for at least a year's time. He didn't know why the Lord was asking him to do so, but he chose to be obedient. Little did he know that a year later, his congregation and their neighbors would be finding shelter in the church for more than 16 months during the war and even until today." [00:801:16]

"When obedience to the Lord leads to greater hardship, taking our doubts to God rather than giving into despair will lead us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. We'll actually be able to hear from the Lord when we need to hear from him most. We have to drown out the noise and the distractions from the world and our current circumstances to clearly hear from God and understand what he's doing." [00:867:55]

"Our hope is in Christ and Christ alone. And that changes how we engage with our circumstances. It changes how we talk about our lives and our future. And it impacts how we choose to live out our callings. At the end of the day, your identity as a follower of Jesus is in Christ and what he says about you. It's not in your work. It's not in your bank account, and it's not in your achievements." [00:986:09]

"God's promises unfold in his timing and often through sustained faithfulness and obedience on our part. Overcoming injustice and oppression rarely sees instant victory but instead requires ongoing courage and trust in the Lord. We have to trust that obedience to God positions us to witness God's power even if it comes through a process rather than a quick fix. This requires us to embrace a long-term view of God's deliverance." [00:1378:14]

"When Moses said yes to God, he didn't know how the story would unfold, but he intimately knew the Lord. He didn't know how long deliverance for his people would take, but he trusted the deliverer. When God calls us to something, our obedience to that calling is more important than the results and the timing. God is the author of his glory and his story, not us." [00:1568:53]

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Transcript
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