Saying Yes to God

“Don't be afraid!" Moses replied. "God has come only to test you, so that by obeying him you won't sin."

– Exodus 20:20

It’s said that the admonition “Fear not” appears in the Bible 365 times — one for each day of the year. However, it’s safe to say that most Believers are still afraid of one thing or another. And for many of them, it’s the prospect of saying yes to God.

One reason is that we too often think of the Lord as a friendly cosmic consultant rather than the all-knowing Creator who made us and wants only the best for us. Moreover, saying no to God is perhaps the most basic definition of sin. And mankind has been doing that since the very earliest days of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.

We know in our head and heart that God loves us. In fact, he loves us so much that he sent his only Son to die on the cross to pay for our many wrongdoings and failures. So, considering such an immense sacrifice on our behalf, why would anyone be afraid to say yes to Him?

One explanation is our innate tendency to play it safe. Fleeing from danger (real or perceived) is completely logical considering our drive for self-preservation. Likewise, we also might refuse God when he calls us to do something that’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. And that’s so often the case. Maybe it involves helping a neighbor who’s between jobs, driving a shut-in to the grocery store, or talking with a co-worker who’s approaching a spiritual crossroads. Taking that first step can be awkward, difficult — and sometimes scary.

But perhaps selfishness is the primary reason so many people are afraid to say yes to God. After all, agreeing with Him often means saying no to us. But be forewarned: When we turn our back to God, we should prepare for spiritual storminess and turmoil. Our Creator knows what he wants and how he wants to do it. Therefore, we shouldn’t be surprised if we find ourselves in a much worse situation following our refusal. As the saying goes, we sometimes must feel the heat before we can see the light.

Are you afraid to answer God’s call? If so, you’re not alone … and he’d like to discuss it with you.

“But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart,” we read in the Old Testament book of 1 Samuel. “Consider what great things he has done for you.”

2024 has just begun. Let’s make the most of the year’s opportunities by stepping out in faith and saying yes to God.