Obedience Starts with Trusting God's Character
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Caleb Culver’s sermon from July 6, 2025!
When we hear the word obedience, most of us don’t get excited. It sounds like rules, restrictions, and giving up what we want. And in a world that tells us to do what feels right and follow our own path, the idea of obedience—especially to God—can feel outdated or even oppressive.
But what if we’ve misunderstood it?
What if obedience isn’t about control, but about freedom?
What if it’s not about being perfect, but about walking in something better?
Obedience Starts with Trust
In Psalm 119:57, the writer says, “The Lord is my portion; I promise to keep your words.”
When the psalmist calls God his “portion,” he’s saying, “God, You’re enough for me. You’re all I need.” From that place of trust and love, he chooses to obey—not out of fear, but out of joy.
Think about it this way: we all follow something. Whether it’s a dream, a relationship, or a feeling—we’re wired to chase what we think will make us happy. But sometimes, the things we run after let us down. The thrill wears off. The peace doesn’t last.
That’s why God invites us to find our deepest joy in Him—not because He wants to rob us of fun, but because He is the source of everything we’re really looking for.
Psalm 16:11 says, “In Your presence there is fullness of joy.” God isn’t trying to restrict us—He’s trying to lead us into more joy than we ever imagined.
Reflection Without Shame
Later in Psalm 119, the writer says, “When I think on my ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies.”
In other words, he looks at his life, sees where he’s gotten off track, and chooses to realign with God. Not in fear. Not in guilt. But because he knows God’s way is better.
That kind of reflection can be scary. No one loves to admit they’re wrong or face areas they need to change. But when we look at ourselves through God’s eyes—full of grace and kindness—it’s not crushing. It’s freeing.
God doesn’t point things out to shame us. He does it like a good parent helping their kid avoid danger. He sees more for us than we often see for ourselves.
His loving kindness leads us to repentance.
Don’t Wait to Do What You Know Is Right
The psalmist says, “I hasten and do not delay to keep your commandments.”
That’s a fancy way of saying: “I don’t wait around when I know what God wants me to do.”
And that’s a good word for all of us. Sometimes, we know there’s something we need to change, but we drag our feet. We say, “I’ll deal with that later,” or “Maybe when life slows down.”
But the longer we wait, the harder it gets.
The truth? Delay can be dangerous. When we know what God is calling us to do, the best time to act is now.
How Do We Actually Live This Out?
So how do we move from hearing God’s Word to actually doing it? Here are a few simple steps that can help:
Start with an open heart. Ask God to speak to you when you read the Bible—even if you’re just starting out.
Look for one thing. You don’t have to fix your whole life overnight. Ask, “God, what’s one step I can take today?”
Write it down. Jot it in your phone or a journal so it doesn’t slip away.
Act on it. Don’t overthink it. Take the step—even if it feels small.
What About Guilt?
If the idea of “examining your life” makes you squirm, you’re not alone. Maybe you've been hurt by religion. Maybe you’ve made choices you regret. Maybe you're afraid of what you'll find if you really look inward.
But here’s the truth: God isn’t out to condemn you.
One of the most beautiful moments in Jesus’ life was when He met a woman caught in adultery (John 8). Everyone around her was ready to shame and stone her. But Jesus said, “Where are your accusers?” And then, “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.”
That’s His heart for you, too.
He sees you fully and loves you completely. His grace doesn’t wait until you’re perfect—it meets you where you are and gently invites you to more.
Obedience That Brings Joy
Imagine this: You read the Bible and it actually brings peace.
You hear God’s voice not as a demand, but as an invitation.
You begin to see obedience not as a weight, but as a way forward.
That’s what God wants for you.
Obedience isn’t about checking religious boxes. It’s about walking closely with a Father who loves you and wants what’s best for you. When we follow Him, we find the freedom and joy we were made for.
God isn’t after your perfection. He’s after your heart. And when He has it, everything else begins to change.
Tap to watch Pastor Caleb Culvers’ full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: Cherishing God as Our Portion
Reading: Psalm 119:57–64
Devotional: The psalmist begins by declaring, “The Lord is my portion.” This powerful statement reminds us that God alone should be our ultimate source of satisfaction and fulfillment. In a world constantly offering fleeting pleasures, we’re called to find our deepest joy in him. Reflect on areas of your life where you might be seeking fulfillment apart from God. How can you reorient your heart to cherish him above all else? Today, practice intentionally turning to God as your portion—especially in moments of temptation or discouragement.
Day 2: Delighting in God’s Word
Reading: Psalm 1:1–6
Devotional: The sermon emphasizes finding delight in God’s Word rather than approaching it as an obligation. Psalm 1 paints a vivid picture of the person who delights in God’s law, comparing them to a fruitful tree planted by streams of water. Consider your current attitude toward Scripture. Do you approach it as a chore or a joy? Ask God to renew your love for his Word. As you read today, look for specific verses that bring you encouragement, and meditate on them throughout the day.
Day 3: Swift Obedience to God’s Commands
Reading: James 1:22–25
Devotional: The message stressed the importance of not just hearing God’s Word but obeying it quickly. James echoes this, urging us to be “doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Reflect on areas where you might be delaying obedience to something God has clearly shown you. What fears or hesitations are holding you back? Remember that his commands are for your good and his glory. Today, take one concrete step of obedience in an area where you’ve been procrastinating.
Day 4: Building Your Life on the Rock
Reading: Matthew 7:24–27
Devotional: Jesus’ parable of the wise and foolish builders shows the importance of not just knowing his teachings, but putting them into practice. The sermon reminds us that partial obedience is like building part of our house on sand. Examine your life: Are there areas where you’re compromising or only partially obeying Jesus? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any “sandy” foundations. Commit to reinforcing those areas by aligning them fully with God’s Word and seeking accountability if needed.
Day 5: Freedom from Condemnation
Reading: Romans 8:1–11
Devotional: The sermon closed by addressing the paralyzing effects of shame and condemnation. Romans 8 boldly declares that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Reflect on ways you may be living under guilt or shame. Remember: God’s voice brings loving conviction, not crushing condemnation. If you’re struggling, meditate on your identity in Christ. Today, practice taking every thought captive (2 Cor. 10:5), replacing lies of shame with the truth of God’s love and acceptance.
There’s an opportunity for you to grow in your spiritual journey, build meaningful community, and truly get connected. At Radiant Church, we’re passionate about helping people grow in faith, encounter the presence of God, and be part of a church grounded in Spirit and truth.