Obey Unconditionally

God requires us to obey unconditionally in every circumstance.

“You have only deceived yourselves; for it is you who sent me to the LORD your God, saying, ‘Pray for us to the LORD our God; and whatever the LORD our God says, tell us so, and we will do it.’”—Jeremiah 42:20 NASB

Some Jews announced that they were going to Egypt where they thought they would be safe and secure. Nonetheless, they asked Jeremiah to pray for them, promising, “Just tell us what the Lord our God says, and we will do it” (NLT). Perhaps they expected God just to confirm their decision.

God told them not to go, yet they quickly forgot their promise. Jeremiah warned, “You have only deceived yourselves,” prophesying that they would die in Egypt. And they did.

It can be easy for us to be quick to make promises. But just as quickly, we can forget or ignore our promises.

God understands our human nature. He knows that many people only obey when they want to, but He’s looking for people who will obey Him unconditionally…even if He responds in a way that surprises or disappoints us. These are the kind of people upon whom He pours out His abundant blessings.

Today, surrender your life unconditionally to God. Don’t hold anything back. Remember that He knows the future and what is best for you.

Be ready to obey the Lord, even when you don’t understand His direction—when He says things that surprise or displease you. Be sure to keep every promise and vow you make to Him. Be a person of your word, careful to only make promises you intend to keep.

Reflection Question: Reflect on a time God asked you to do something that didn’t make sense.