A Simple Guide to Obedience – Rebekah’s Story
Obedience is a big word, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s not just about doing what you’re told or following a list of rules. In the world of faith and spirituality, obedience is more like a journey—a process that starts with one big step and continues with many smaller ones.
The Gate of Obedience: Where It All Begins
Think of obedience like a journey that begins at a special doorway—the “gate of obedience.” Before you can really live a life that follows God, you need to walk through this gate. Passing through the gate means making a clear choice: you decide to trust God more than your own plans, habits, or old ways of thinking.
This isn’t something you do halfway—it’s a choice to hand over your hopes, your stubbornness, and even your comforts, saying, “God, I’m willing to let you lead.” It can feel challenging, because it often means letting go of things you’ve held onto for a long time.
The Way of Obedience: Walking the Path
Once you step through the gate, your journey isn’t over—it’s only just begun! Now you find yourself on the “way of obedience,” which is the ongoing path you walk every day. This is about the little decisions you make: choosing to do the right thing, following God’s lead, and sticking with it even when it’s tough.
Some days, the way feels easy; other times, it feels rocky or steep. You might feel like turning back, especially when things get uncomfortable. But the key is to keep moving forward, step by step, trusting that God is with you on the path.
Why Is This Important?
Here’s the heart of the matter: if you haven’t walked through the gate—if you haven’t made that first big choice to trust and surrender—then everyday obedience will always feel forced, difficult, or even impossible. The journey really starts when you say, “God, I’m all in.” After that, you’ll be ready for whatever comes, because you’ve already decided to follow His lead no matter what.
Learning from Rebekah: A Real-Life Example
The Bible tells the story of Rebekah, who was asked to leave everything she knew to marry Isaac (Genesis 24). When the question was put to her, she simply said, “I will go.” That one decision changed her life. She left her family, her home, and her comfort, trusting that God’s plan was good—even though she couldn’t see all the details.
This is a picture of obedience: it’s not always comfortable, and sometimes it’s a little scary, but it’s about trusting that God’s way is better than our own.
But Rebekah’s story doesn’t end there. Later, in Genesis 27, she made a different choice. Instead of trusting God, she used trickery and manipulation to help her son Jacob receive a blessing that was meant for his brother Esau. This led to family problems, heartbreak, and separation. It’s a reminder that obedience isn’t a one-time thing; it’s a journey with ups and downs.
It’s Not About Being Perfect
Everyone struggles with obedience at times. Sometimes we want to run away from what God is asking, or we make mistakes. That’s normal. The important part is not to give up. Be honest—with yourself and with God—and keep moving forward, even when it’s hard.
What Happens When We Choose Obedience?
When you decide to walk through the gate and keep going on the way, your relationship with God grows deeper. You start to see changes in your heart and in your life. You’ll find that nothing God asks is too difficult or costly, because you trust Him to lead you.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the take-away? First, make the big decision to surrender your plans to God—walk through the gate. Then, keep following Him in the everyday moments—walk the way. Both steps are important. Your journey begins with surrender but continues as you keep choosing God, one step, one day at a time.
Obedience isn’t just about doing what you’re told. It’s about building a relationship with God based on trust and love. And as you walk this path, the road will get brighter and your faith will grow stronger.
Rebekah’s story reminds us that obedience can lead to amazing things, but taking shortcuts or relying only on ourselves can bring trouble. The journey of obedience is for everyone—imperfect, honest, and willing to walk with God, step by step.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 