Through him and for his name’s sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. Romans 1:5 (NIV)
God calls you to “the obedience of faith.” He calls you to find in Christ what you do not have, to receive from Christ what you cannot offer, to accomplish through Christ what you cannot do. Believe in order that you may obey.
Are you holding back because you think you cannot change? Come to Christ and He will give you new desires, new affections, new strength, and new life that you did not have before. The obedience that is beyond you by nature is possible for you by faith.
Are you holding back because you have problems, hurts, wounds? Stop looking at yourself. You won’t find the answer there. Self is an empty idol that has no power. God is calling you to a life of faith and obedience that flows from Jesus’ life in you.
Are you holding back because you have doubts and questions? Come to Christ with your doubts and questions: “Lord, I believe; help me in my unbelief!”
Are you holding back because you don’t think you need Christ? Your obedience is far from complete. God commands you to repent and obey the gospel.
Are you holding back because your sins are many? Look at the cross. See the agony of the Savior. He is there for sinners. He is there for you. The blood of Christ has power to cleanse you from every sin.
The Savior is able to present you faultless on the last day with great joy in His presence. Come to Him and find hope in Him today.
What most holds you back from the obedience of faith that God calls you to today?
