“Do you seek great things for yourself? Do not do it!” (Jeremiah 45:5).
It is in the calm and quiet moments of life that God works most deeply in us. It is there, when we become still before Him and wait patiently, that we are strengthened by His presence. While the world pressures us to act, to rush, to decide on our own and to keep everything under control, God’s way calls us to trust, surrender, and obedience. He does not want us to run ahead of Him, but to learn to follow in His steps, trusting that His light will guide us, even when we cannot yet clearly see the next step.
When we make the firm decision to obey the wonderful and powerful Law of the Creator—with all our heart, with all our strength, even if the whole world stands against us—something profound happens within us. Our personal desire begins to diminish, and God’s desire becomes the center of everything. Just as Jesus did not seek His own will but the Father’s, we begin to live with that same spirit of submission and love. And it is only in this place of obedience that true spiritual knowledge and the maturing of the soul take place.
Any attempt to unite with God without this foundation will be in vain. Communion with the Father is not established by feelings, beautiful words, or isolated good intentions—it is born and grows in obedience to His holy and perfect commandments. It is through obedience that we walk side by side with God, being shaped by Him, guided by Him, and ultimately receiving the promise of eternal life in Christ Jesus. To obey is the way—and it is also the destination, for it is where we find God Himself. -Adapted from Isaac Penington. Until tomorrow, if the Lord allows us.
Pray with me: Dear God, it is true that I often let myself be carried away by the haste and pressures of this world. When everything is calm, I feel I need to do something, decide something, move something—but You call me to silence, to trust, and to rest in You. Teach me to stop before Your presence and to wait patiently, knowing that it is in these moments of stillness that You work most deeply within me. When I turn my heart to Your Law and choose to walk at Your pace, I begin to feel a peace that does not depend on circumstances.
My Father, today I ask You to plant in me the courage to obey firmly, even when this puts me at odds with the world. Give me a spirit determined to follow Your commandments with love and reverence, just as Your Son faithfully followed everything You commanded. I want Your desire to become the center of my life, and for my heart to rejoice in pleasing You above all. Guide me on this path of maturity, so that I may not only know You, but walk with You in true communion.
Oh, Most Holy God, I worship and praise You because You do not hide Yourself from those who seek You sincerely. Your beloved Son is my eternal Prince and Savior. Your powerful Law is like a river of pure waters that washes, renews, and leads my soul. Your commandments are like stars in the dark sky, faithfully showing the direction I should follow. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, amen.
