Obeying God May Cost Others
Jan 11, 2021 at 6:10 AM
‘As they led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus.’ (Luke 23:26)
Recently, our family faced a tough decision. Last night, we even had a discussion about it (the kids joined in too).
Obeying God sometimes harms others’ interests. Like when you follow Jesus against family objections, risking family relationships (often threatened by cutting ties); like honestly reporting taxes, even if it raises company costs.
Last night’s discussion led nowhere. In the end, we found ourselves caught in indecision, weighing pros and cons. After reading Oswald Chambers this morning, I realized our difficulty came from calculating only our family’s gains and losses (with the kids joining in calculating) without considering God’s will (obedience to God) and the loss others might bear (perhaps some emotional hurt).
Chambers’ reminder today struck me, “Beware of the idea that you obey God but set conditions for Him.”
So, before making this decision, our family needs to think about two things:
- What is God’s will in this? The two choices may seem minor now, but in the long run, they lead in different directions. Understanding God’s will might also reveal the biblical standard in this matter, enabling us to obey correctly.
- Are we ready to obey simply and relentlessly, prepared to pay the cost and leave all consequences to God?
Thank God for:
- On the night of January 9, I couldn’t agree to something small for Linda, which made her upset. She said things like “I hate you, Dad,” and “Others’ families are better.” It hurt me. Thank God, during various communications with her, the Holy Spirit reminded me not to say complaints or hurtful words like, “If others’ families are better, then go there.” The Holy Spirit’s guidance helped me restrain myself, trying to communicate from my child’s perspective and feelings. (What I experience as “the Holy Spirit’s reminder” isn’t a voice but a nudge in my heart.)
- Sunday’s sermon taught me about Christian life: separating from the world daily, uniting with Christ, living a godly life of good deeds, continuously becoming holy.
- Family discussion at night (with the kids involved).