Sunday Devotional: When Obedience Looks Like Love

“You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe. I will not say much more to you, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold over me, but he comes so that the world may learn that I love the Father and do exactly what my Father has commanded me. Come now; let us leave.” — John 14:28–31 (NIV)

Walking Through Uncertainty with Trust

We don’t often associate love with letting go. In fact, most of us cling tightly to what brings us comfort, stability, or clarity. The disciples were no different. On the eve of His crucifixion, Jesus looked into the eyes of His closest friends and said something that would challenge everything they believed: “If you loved Me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father.”

That’s not how love usually feels. But Jesus was revealing a deeper truth—obedience to God’s will isn’t just an act of surrender. It’s a declaration of love.

Understanding the Moment

Jesus was preparing His disciples for His death, resurrection, and ascension. These weren’t random events—they were the fulfillment of God’s plan to redeem the world. Knowing how deeply their hearts would ache, He gently reminded them that this path, though painful, was necessary.

To those hearing His words firsthand, the message wasn’t abstract theology—it was personal. Their beloved Rabbi was leaving. But He wanted them to view His departure not with sorrow, but with hope. Because the journey He was taking wasn’t a detour—it was destiny.

The Enemy Has No Hold

Jesus continued, “The prince of this world is coming. He has no hold over me.”

What a declaration.

Satan would soon move behind the scenes—through betrayal, manipulation, cruelty—but none of it would catch Jesus off guard. Christ wasn’t being defeated; He was walking forward in full authority. His obedience was voluntary, intentional, and filled with purpose.

Satan had no hold on Him—no accusation could stick, no weakness could be exploited, no sin could stain His perfection.

This isn’t just good theology. It’s our anchor.

When you’re up against battles that seem bigger than you, you can stand firm in Christ, the One who overcame.

Jesus Obeyed the Father Because He Loved the Father

This may be the most overlooked part of the passage: “…so that the world may learn that I love the Father and do exactly what my Father has commanded me.”

Jesus didn’t obey out of duty or fear—He obeyed because of love. His actions flowed from relationship, not obligation. And that’s the example He sets for us.

Obedience, when rooted in love, becomes worship. It becomes a visible testimony to the world that God is worthy of our “yes,” even when the road ahead looks uncertain.

Applying This Today

Life rarely unfolds the way we imagine. Plans shift. People leave. Doors close. It’s tempting to interpret these changes as chaos or failure. But what if they’re invitations? What if your “going away” moment—whether it’s a new season, a painful transition, or a hard decision—is actually a step toward something greater?

Jesus’ obedience wasn’t easy. Yet He trusted the Father’s heart.

You can too.

When you’re called to obey in silence, serve behind the scenes, or walk away from something familiar, you’re not losing—you’re loving. You’re joining Jesus in saying, “Not my will, but Yours be done.”

Living Faithfully in the Tension

This is where Living Faith Fearlessly becomes more than a blog title. It’s a way of life.

To live faithfully means acknowledging the tension between fear and obedience and choosing trust anyway. It means surrendering the need to understand everything in favor of walking closely with the One who does.

Jesus didn’t sugarcoat the coming storm, but He gave His disciples peace in the middle of it: “Come now; let us leave.” That quiet line is a nudge for us, too. Don’t stay paralyzed in uncertainty. Rise up. Step forward. The Father is already there.

A Word of Encouragement

When we read Jesus’ words in John 14:28–31, we’re reminded that obedience doesn’t always feel like victory—but it always reflects trust. The unknown may feel overwhelming, but we are not alone in it. Jesus walked the road of surrender so we could walk in His strength.

As you face moments of decision, delay, or doubt, take heart. You don’t need to have all the answers to move forward. What matters is knowing the One who leads you.

Let your obedience be an act of love. Let your peace come from knowing the enemy has no lasting claim on you. And when fear tries to take hold, anchor yourself in the truth that Jesus has already overcome.

You were made to walk in bold, loving obedience. Not because the path is easy—but because the One who leads you is faithful. Let your trust be your offering. Let your steps preach louder than your words. And remember, obedience isn’t about losing control—it’s about aligning your heart with the One who holds all things together.

Bible Passages to Reflect On

• Philippians 2:5–11 – Jesus humbled Himself in obedience and was exalted.
• Hebrews 4:15 – Our High Priest is without sin.
• Matthew 26:39 – “Not my will, but Yours be done.”
• 1 John 4:4 – “Greater is He that is in you…”
• Revelation 12:11 – Victory by the blood of the Lamb.

Each Sunday on Living Faith Fearlessly, I share a Sunday Devotional to help you start your week with purpose, peace, and the presence of God.

Whether you’re seeking comfort, guidance, or simply a quiet moment to reconnect with the One who holds it all, there’s a word of truth and hope waiting for you.

Catch up on past Sunday Devotionals here.

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