July 4, 2026

Being Obedient to God

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Lectionary Week

June 29–July 5, 2026

Scripture Overview

Our four scripture passages this week connect to the discipleship practice of being obedient to God. In the Hebrew Bible we see Abraham’s servant and Rebekah take leaps of faith to become part of a great family lineage. The psalm is one for a royal wedding, suited to questions of family and legacy. In Matthew, Jesus promises us that if we choose a path of trusting and following God, he will take up our earthly burdens so that we might find joy in following him. Paul writes to the Romans of his emotional turmoil in trying to be obedient to God, and the relief of knowing that Jesus is always ready to come to our aid.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67. When have you felt God calling you to take a leap in faith? How did it make you feel? Can you look back and see the hand of God at work?
Read Psalm 45:10-17. What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind?
Read Romans 7:15-25a. Do you ever feel discouraged with yourself and your faith? How do you lean on Jesus, knowing that his resurrection has saved us from sin and despair?
Read Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30. Think of one burden that is weighing on you right now. Ask God to take it. Who is a wise person in your life? How can you seek wisdom?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Each of us carry burdens every day. We walk around holding worry about our family members, our friends, our jobs, our communities, and so much more. We wish to take burdens from our children or aging parents. Yet so many of us don’t want to set our burdens upon someone...

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Jesus, we come to you with open hearts, ready to hand off our earthly burdens for the yoke of joyful obedience to you. We pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to renew our souls, so that we may go out into the world ready to bring the good news that people are longing to hear. Amen.

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