Faith and Obedience: The Foundation of Success

Will You Rise to God’s Challenge? You Might Be the one He calls. Faith and obedience are recurring themes in Scripture, serving as the cornerstone for the success of God’s chosen leaders. In times of uncertainty, challenges, or impossibilities, faith in God and unwavering obedience to His commands enable leaders to overcome insurmountable odds. Joshua and Gideon’s lives illustrate how faith and obedience not only bring victory but also reveal God’s glory in fulfilling His promises.

Joshua: Faith in God’s Promises

Joshua’s leadership journey demonstrates unwavering faith in God. As one of the two faithful spies, Joshua confidently declared that the Israelites could conquer the Promised Land because “the Lord is with us” (Numbers 14:9). His faith was rooted in God’s covenant with Israel, believing that God’s promises would prevail despite opposition.

One of Joshua’s defining moments of faith and obedience was the conquest of Jericho. God’s instructions seemed unconventional: march around the city for seven days, then shout and blow trumpets on the seventh day (Joshua 6:2-5). Joshua did not question God’s methods but obeyed fully, leading the Israelites in faith. The result? The walls of Jericho fell, showcasing the power of faith and obedience (Joshua 6:20).

Joshua’s faith was also evident in his commitment to God’s Word. God commanded him: “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night...Then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1:8). By living out this principle, Joshua’s leadership was marked by victories and covenant fulfilment.

Gideon: Obedience Despite Doubts

Gideon’s journey highlights a faith that grew through obedience. Initially, Gideon was hesitant, questioning his ability to deliver Israel: “How can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest, and I am the least in my family” (Judges6:15). However, God assured him: “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites” (Judges 6:16).

Gideon obeyed, even when God reduced his army from 32,000 to 300 men. God’s reason was clear: “In order that Israel may not boast that her own strength has saved her” (Judges 7:2). Gideon trusted God’s plan and, armed with faith, led a small force to a miraculous victory over the Midianites (Judges 7:19-22). His obedience demonstrated that success comes not from numbers or strength but from faith in God’s power.

What This Means For Us

The stories of Joshua and Gideon teach us that faith and obedience go hand in hand as the foundation of success. Joshua’s unwavering trust in God’s promises and Gideon’s growing faith through obedience illustrate how God works through those who trust Him completely.

For readers, these lessons are timeless. We, too, are called to trust God’s Word and obey His commands, even when His plans seem unconventional or beyond our understanding. As Jesus taught: “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28).

By stepping out in faith and obeying God, we position ourselves to experience His power and fulfill His purposes. Success, as seen through God’s eyes, is rooted in reliance on Him rather than our own abilities or strategies.