The Obedience of Faith

We all go through times when life feels chaotic—like everything is swirling around us and nothing makes sense. Ever been there? Where you’re praying, “God, give me wisdom. Help me discern what’s happening around me”? Whether you’re in a moment or a season of confusion, here’s what I want you to know: you’re not alone. And you’re actually in a good place—because faith has a voice in the chaos.

Faith Is More Than a Feeling

In moments like that, we can’t be reactionary. We must learn to respond to the Holy Spirit. And how do we respond when everything seems unclear? By faith.

Now, that might sound like a churchy answer, but let’s get practical. Hebrews 11—what many call the faith chapter—opens like this:

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Did you catch that? Faith is substance. It’s the invisible proof, the evidence that the promise is real—even before you see it.

And here’s the key: our faith isn’t in ourselves. Culture tells us to believe in ourselves. But without Jesus, there’s not much to believe in. Scripture says, “There is none good, no not one,” and our righteousness is like filthy rags. But here’s the good news—Jesus is our righteousness. He lives in you. And He’s filled your life with precious promises.

Maybe your promise is healing… or provision… or emotional peace… or restoration in your family. These promises are real. They’re true. But just because something is true doesn’t mean it’s happening right now. And when it’s not happening now, the only evidence you have is your faith.

Not faith in your faith. Not faith in how strongly you believe. Jesus said, “faith the size of a mustard seed” can move mountains. So it’s not about the size of your faith. It’s about where your faith is placed—on the character, strength, and integrity of God.

Obedience Is the Proof of Faith

Let’s go deeper. Hebrews 11:8 says:

“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.”

Let’s pause right there—By faith, Abraham obeyed. Say that out loud. By faith… Abraham obeyed.

Faith takes steps. Even waiting faith requires steps. So if you’re saying, “I’m just waiting on God,” that’s okay—but ask Him what your next step is. Because real faith always requires obedience.

All throughout Scripture, those who had faith did something. They took a step. They obeyed—even when it didn’t make sense. God often asks us to move outside of our comfort zones so we can trust Him more fully.

Maybe you’re in a swirling season. Could it be that God is inviting you to obey—even when everything around you feels unsure?

We often think the will of God is a final destination. But it’s not just a destination—it’s a direction. It’s made up of small steps. Daily steps. Weekly steps. Yearly steps. If you skip the little steps, you’ll never arrive at the big destination.

Let me give you an example. Every summer, my family loves to travel to Colorado. It’s a 12-hour trip from where we live. We could sit at home and wishwe were there. But unless I start the car, put it in gear, and drive—even through long stretches of cornfields and windmills—we’ll never arrive.

That’s exactly how faith works.

Take the Next Step

“He went out, not knowing where he was going.” That’s what Hebrews says about Abraham. He had no map. He had no blueprint. But he trusted the voice of God and followed one step at a time.

Sound familiar? You and I do the same thing when we follow GPS on a road trip. Even though we’ve traveled the road before, we still plug it into our phones. Why? Because it guides us turn by turn—even when things change.

Sometimes, that’s how the Holy Spirit leads us. He doesn’t give us the whole plan upfront. He gives us a step. And then another step. And sometimes… we stop hearing because we didn’t obey the last thing He told us.

Friend, if you feel stuck, ask yourself: Have I obeyed what He already said?

You may already know the step God’s asking you to take. It could be a conversation, a decision, a stand of faith. But you’re waiting—delaying—hoping things will become clearer. Let me lovingly tell you: the clarity often comes afteryou step.

When you finally say yes, it’s like the wind of heaven rushes in. God rarely gives the full map, but He always gives the next step. And the Holy Spirit is your guide—just like that GPS voice telling you, “Turn here. Slow down. Go forward.”

The scripture continues:

“By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country… for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.”

God is building something for you—not just in eternity, but here on earth. A life that’s shaped by His promise. And if you’ll take steps of obedience—even small ones—you’re moving forward.

So here’s what I want you to take away today:

Faith means you obey. Even when you don’t know where you’re going. Even when it feels unfamiliar.

Faith means being comfortable with the unknown because you’re confident in the God who called you there.

Let Me Pray for You

If that’s you, and you feel like you’re in the middle of a swirl—unsure of your next step—reach out. I’d love to pray with you. You can comment, or join our email family and share your prayer needs. My wife and I really do pray over the people who connect with us.

But right now, let me pray for you here:

Heavenly Father, I lift up my friend who’s reading. For those walking through uncertain seasons—God, plant in them a heart of obedience. Give them boldness to take that next step, no matter how big or small. Holy Spirit, speak clearly. Guide them with peace. Fill them with strength. And remind them that even when the road seems unfamiliar, they’re not alone. You’re with them. You’re faithful. You’re good. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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