Jeremiah 42:20-22 NIV “You made a fatal mistake when you sent me to the Lord your God and said, ‘Pray to the Lord our God for us; tell us everything he says and we will do it.’ I have told you today, but you still have not obeyed the Lord your God in all he sent me to tell you. So now, be sure of this: You will die by the sword, famine and plague in the place where you want to go to settle.”

The Dangerous Gap Between Belief and Obedience

Jeremiah’s warning echoes into our lives today: hearing God’s Word without obeying it is fatal. The people of Judah said they wanted God’s direction—but when He spoke, they followed their own plans.

Men, how often do we do the same? We ask God for clarity on career moves, finances, or relationships, yet when His will contradicts our desires, we hesitate or ignore Him.

A Modern Moment of Truth

I recently spoke with a young man who believed in Jesus but had a girlfriend who rejected Christ. His real question wasn’t about the relationship. It was this: Is Jesus truly Lord of my life?

If Jesus is merely a comforting belief—like a spiritual mascot—then we’ll do whatever we want. But if He is Lord and God, obedience is non-negotiable.

Believers vs. Disciples

• Believers acknowledge Jesus intellectually but refuse to submit. Even demons do that.

• Disciples deny themselves, take up the cross, and follow Jesus regardless of cost (Luke 9:23).

Discipleship means death to our will and the courage to put God’s glory first—whether that means ending an ungodly relationship, changing jobs, or realigning our entire life.

Men wrestling with purpose and priorities, hear this:

• Love God most by doing His will first.

• Trust His Word even when it conflicts with your plans.

• Walk the narrow road of obedience that leads to eternal life (Matt. 7:14).

Belief without obedience is self-deception. True disciples repent, trust Jesus’ finished work, and demonstrate love for God through surrendered lives.

Today, choose more than belief—choose the road of discipleship. Obey the Lord your God, whatever the cost, and find life that lasts forever.