Devotional

Real Reality

Ready 

"If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land." — Isaiah 1:19

Set 

There are many “reality” shows on television today, and nearly all of them delve into areas that are indeed outlandish. One show in particular that caught my attention involved an experienced foreign nanny who came to rescue a family who had lost control of their children. The parents were depicted as a hapless pair who were desperate and frustrated with their lives.

Watching the show, I became mentally riled up and longed for the mom and dad to get their act together and invoke some control. I began to reflect on the parents’ lack of willingness to provide discipline, and was shocked that they did not recognize that the lack of obedience in their home created a culture of chaos and despair. Love, kindness, and forgiveness seemed just as foreign as the nanny. No adult or child could prosper in such an environment.

Their “reality” led me to contemplate how God views our nature in terms of willingness and obedience. Every coach knows that practice leads to better performance; however, sometimes the missing link is a player’s will. Players without a will to perform or desire to follow instructions create a culture of chaos on a team. The same thing happens in our lives when we do not submit and obey our heavenly Father. Are you ready to live within God’s reality, being willing and obedient?

Go 

1. Are you directing your own steps, or is God leading your life?
2. Does your role as a coach blend with God’s direction for you?
3. In what areas of your life do you exhibit an unwilling or disobedient attitude?

Workout 

Extra Reading: Proverbs 16:7–9; Hebrews 12:7–11; 1 Peter 3:17

Overtime 

Lord, Your reality always meets my needs. I pray that You will continually remind me of Your will for my life and of my need to submit to Your sovereignty with an obedient heart. Please forgive me for those areas in my life where I have not practiced obedience, and help me to improve so that my earthly performance glorifies You. Thank you for the freedom to follow in Your footsteps. Amen.
 

Ministry