A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Wednesday, November 9

A Long Obedience in the Same Direction
By: Pastor Shane Beauvais

The title of this devotional comes from one of my favorite shepherds of shepherds, Eugene Peterson.
 
In his book, which I highly recommend, Peterson reminds us that the Christian life is not a walk in the park. 
 
Reminding us that sometimes we “consciously or unconsciously” place ourselves in a position of doubt when “Saying ‘No’ to the world and ‘Yes’ to God” does not solve all of our problems. In fact, it is quite the opposite. Throughout the Bible, faith encounters troubles, yet we are promised perseverance from these troubles, not an exemption.
 
How do you define your troubles? 
 
Perhaps failures, challenging relationships, accidents, arguments with loved ones, disobedience, misunderstanding, or instances when you just missed the mark, failure? 
 
Furthermore, when faced with these areas, what is your response?
 
I had often wondered if I heard God correctly, especially when my surroundings did not resemble what I thought they should. It is easy for us to feel uncertain in moments such as this.
 
What if we shifted our focus from uncertainty towards perseverance? 
 
Merriam-Webster defines perseverance as a continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition. Perseverance is staying true to the long haul, even when we cannot see God moving! 
 
Furthermore, sometimes we must be reminded that our final result is a journey, not a destination.
 
Habakkuk 2:3 reads, “For there is still a vision for the appointed time; it speaks of the end and does not lie. If it seems to tarry, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.” 
 
In this passage, God answers Habakkuk, instructing him to write down what he hears, knowing that what he seeks will be a long time coming. Not only will there be a waiting period, but there is an appointed time! 
 
Sometimes we equate waiting, persevering, and trenching through difficulties to uncertainty. If we are honest, sometimes the failures teach us the most and prepare us for what God had in mind all along!  
 
Like Habakkuk must have felt, sometimes staying true to the long haul can be challenging. Nevertheless, God understands our perspective as well. This is why He instructs Habakkuk to wait even though the vision is delayed. 
 
God sees his plan for us from both perspectives, encouraging us not to give up hope even if what we seek is a long time coming.
 
Where is God calling you to obedience as you navigate the long haul?