The Word as a Call to Obedience
The Word as a Call to Obedience
Speaker: Pastor Caleb Culver
Date: July 6, 2025
What if obedience to God wasn’t about rules—but joy? True obedience starts when we find our pleasure in God, not in sin. Don’t miss this powerful message from Pastor Caleb Culver as we continue our Get Shredded series!
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: Cherishing God as Our Portion
Reading: Psalm 119:57–64
Devotional: The psalmist begins by declaring, “The Lord is my portion.” This powerful statement reminds us that God alone should be our ultimate source of satisfaction and fulfillment. In a world constantly offering fleeting pleasures, we’re called to find our deepest joy in him. Reflect on areas of your life where you might be seeking fulfillment apart from God. How can you reorient your heart to cherish him above all else? Today, practice intentionally turning to God as your portion—especially in moments of temptation or discouragement.
Day 2: Delighting in God’s Word
Reading: Psalm 1:1–6
Devotional: The sermon emphasizes finding delight in God’s Word rather than approaching it as an obligation. Psalm 1 paints a vivid picture of the person who delights in God’s law, comparing them to a fruitful tree planted by streams of water. Consider your current attitude toward Scripture. Do you approach it as a chore or a joy? Ask God to renew your love for his Word. As you read today, look for specific verses that bring you encouragement, and meditate on them throughout the day.
Day 3: Swift Obedience to God’s Commands
Reading: James 1:22–25
Devotional: The message stressed the importance of not just hearing God’s Word but obeying it quickly. James echoes this, urging us to be “doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Reflect on areas where you might be delaying obedience to something God has clearly shown you. What fears or hesitations are holding you back? Remember that his commands are for your good and his glory. Today, take one concrete step of obedience in an area where you’ve been procrastinating.
Day 4: Building Your Life on the Rock
Reading: Matthew 7:24–27
Devotional: Jesus’ parable of the wise and foolish builders shows the importance of not just knowing his teachings, but putting them into practice. The sermon reminds us that partial obedience is like building part of our house on sand. Examine your life: Are there areas where you’re compromising or only partially obeying Jesus? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any “sandy” foundations. Commit to reinforcing those areas by aligning them fully with God’s Word and seeking accountability if needed.
Day 5: Freedom from Condemnation
Reading: Romans 8:1–11
Devotional: The sermon closed by addressing the paralyzing effects of shame and condemnation. Romans 8 boldly declares that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Reflect on ways you may be living under guilt or shame. Remember: God’s voice brings loving conviction, not crushing condemnation. If you’re struggling, meditate on your identity in Christ. Today, practice taking every thought captive (2 Cor. 10:5), replacing lies of shame with the truth of God’s love and acceptance.