Lessons Learned from My Sickness Part 24: Trust and Obey
By Pastor Ronny Luces
This is the title of one of the most popular and timeless hymns sang by Christians the world over.
How many people were brought to the saving knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ because of this hymn?
How many lives were changed for the better because of the enlightening and inspiring message of the song?
We really can’t tell. But I’m sure many people were able to gain favorable results in their lives by adhering to the challenges the song poses.
During my long hospital confinement, I was greatly helped by the encouragement I received from this hymn. When I faced uncertainties and lingering doubts, I just told myself, “Just trust and obey”.
Instead of spending time worrying, instead of asking too many questions, instead of formulating my own theories and explanations, I just told myself, “Just trust and obey”.
Just trust that God knows what’s best for us. Just trust that he is sovereign, his power knows no bounds, and he will work miraculously through people he touched.
That he can work through the doctors, surgeons, nurses, laboratory personnel, etc. That his power can be manifested through medications and treatments administered to our physical body.
But more importantly, I trust that God listened to the sincere prayers of the faithful who continue to humbly ask for his intercession and compassion.
As a result, I discovered that when I fully trust God in all these things, I can obey everything that the doctors prescribed for my own good.
I obeyed the dietary requirements, I obeyed the prescribed rest and exercise schedule. I obeyed the sanitary procedures like wearing masks even though it’s inconvenient at times.
Indeed, to trust and obey are two compelling virtues that can strengthen our relationship with the Lord and help us face our practical problems.
Trust and obey, for there’s no other way, to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.
Posted on FB: 16 March 2015 – 2:41 PM
About the Author
Rev. Ronny Luces was the Minister for Administration and Community Service of the Jaro Evangelical Church (JEC), Iloilo City, Philipines. He and his wife, Martha have been with JEC’s ministry since 1994.
Pastor Ronny graduated from Central Philippine University College of Theology in 1985 and was pastor of several Baptist churches.
In January 2015, after tests and two long hospital confinements, Pastor Ronny got the word he had lung cancer. He underwent chemotherapy.
Praying for healing and going through all the medical processes, Pastor Ronny wrote his reflections “Lessons Learned from My Sickness.” In July 2015, he passed away.
May Pastor Ronny’s series of reflections and meditations strengthen your hope and faith as you go through your own life’s battles.
PHOTO CREDIT: Karl Hipolito. Used with permission. Thank you.
One of my favorite songs that helped me to stay focused during my own trials.
A song/hymn that’s easy to sing but very hard to follow in real life but the fruit of perseverance to trust and obey brings about unspeakable joy. Thank you Patty for posting a testimony statement.