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<v SPEAKER_01>Obedience can sometimes feel like a big word.

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<v SPEAKER_01>We often think of it as rules or restrictions to follow, but Jesus desires to connect our obedience to love.

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<v SPEAKER_01>When we receive love from him, we trust him.

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<v SPEAKER_01>And when we trust him, we begin to follow him.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Even if we don't fully understand or see the outcome yet.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Obedience is not about earning God's approval, it is a response to already being loved by him.

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<v SPEAKER_01>It's living in response to his love for us.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Because he is good and trustworthy.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Before we pray, take a moment to thank Jesus for his love towards you.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Reflect on the ways he has patiently led and cared for you throughout the last twelve months.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Maybe it's a relationship, a decision, or a next step you've been hesitant to take.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Let's take the next minute and bring that before him, honestly.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Let's ask him to help your obedience flow from love rather than obligation and to give you confidence in Jesus' leadership.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Maybe nothing comes to mind immediately.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Would you take this minute to ask God if there is an area he is inviting you to strengthen your faith and to trust him through obedience?

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<v SPEAKER_01>Can feel so counterintuitive to obey the Lord without all the details or the guarantee of a specific outcome.

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<v SPEAKER_01>We have to trust his character and track record.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Is there someone in your life that you either know or suspect could be struggling with a decision or a lifestyle habit?

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<v SPEAKER_01>Take the next minute and pray strength and endurance over them.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Help us follow you with willing hearts.

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<v SPEAKER_01>If there is worry, hesitation, or fear holding us back from making a decision to follow your leading in a certain way.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Would you give us strength to choose you?

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<v SPEAKER_01>Holy Spirit, would you empower us to obey you and give us peace before all the things get sorted out?

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<v SPEAKER_01>We trust you, God.

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<v SPEAKER_01>We trust your plans and what you can see ahead for us on the other side of obedience.

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<v SPEAKER_01>Amen.