Three little letters hold incredible power: Y-E-S. Saying 'yes' to God can be one of the most life-changing decisions we make—and it’s not always easy.
Isaiah 6:8 says, “Then I heard the Lord asking, ‘Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?’ I said, ‘Here I am. Send me.’” Isaiah’s willingness to say 'yes' to God’s call is a perfect example of trust and obedience in action.
Let’s explore stories of saying 'yes' in the Bible, what it means for our lives, and how God uses our obedience to fulfill His purposes.
Recognizing and Responding to God’s Call
1 Samuel 3:10 says, “And the Lord came and called as before, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ And Samuel replied, ‘Speak, your servant is listening.’”
Samuel had never heard God’s voice before. His mentor Eli was the one who usually heard from the Lord. This story shows how God calls us, often persistently, until we answer.
Saying 'yes' starts with listening to God’s voice. We can hear Him more clearly when we spend quiet time in His presence.
Is there something God has already called you to do? What might He be asking you to say 'yes' to today?
Matthew 4:19-20 says, “Jesus called out to them, ‘Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!’ And they left their nets at once and followed him.”
The disciples’ immediate 'yes' to Jesus demonstrates faith and surrender. They left behind all they knew to follow Him, trusting in His plan.
What is holding you back from saying 'yes' to God’s invitation? Take one small step of faith toward His calling today.
Trusting God’s Voice and Taking the First Step
Exodus 4:10-12 says, “But Moses pleaded with the Lord, ‘O Lord, I’m not very good with words. I never have been, and I’m not now. Even though you have spoken to me, I get tongue-tied, and my words get tangled.’ Then the Lord asked Moses, ‘Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.’”
Moses’ reluctance reminds us that doubt and insecurity are natural when God calls us. But God equips those He calls, even in their weakness.
What fear or hesitation do you need to surrender to God today? Trust Him to equip you for what He has called you to do.
Matthew 16:24-25 says, “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.’”
Saying 'yes' often requires sacrifice. Letting go of control can be hard, but the reward of following Jesus far outweighs the cost.
Identify one area of your life where you can surrender control to God.
Experiencing the Joy and Purpose of Obedience
John 10:10 says, “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”
The enemy wants to fill us with fear and doubt, but God gives peace and joy in all circumstances. Obedience to God leads to an abundant, purposeful life.
Has there been a time when saying 'yes' to God brought unexpected joy? Reflect on that moment and let it encourage you to keep trusting Him.
James 1:22 says, “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.”
Saying 'yes' transforms us and impacts those around us. Obedience may not make sense to others, but as long as we follow God’s leading, He will provide everything we need.
What action can you take today to live out your 'yes' to God?
Embrace the Joy of Saying 'Yes'
Saying 'yes' to God is the beginning of a life filled with purpose and blessing. Each act of obedience draws us closer to Him and opens the door to His plans.
I hope you’re encouraged to say 'yes' to God’s call. Whether it’s a big leap of faith or a small act of obedience, each 'yes' brings us closer to Him.
Let’s step into today ready to listen, trust, and say 'yes' to the amazing plans God has for our lives.