Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!”
Acts 5:29 NIV
This verse presents a powerful example of fearless obedience to God through the actions of Peter and the apostles. The authorities imprisoned these men for teaching the people about Jesus. Despite strict orders from the high priest and council to stop them, they boldly responded, “We must obey God rather than men.” Their lives reflected what it truly means to live in full obedience to God, even in the face of danger.
The passage highlights the courage it takes to stand firm in fearless obedience to God, especially when human instructions oppose divine ones. The authorities had already jailed the apostles, giving them every reason to fear, but they still chose to obey the voice of God over the voice of man. Instead of delaying or debating, they immediately returned to doing what God had called them to do. They even informed their persecutors immediately that they had resolved to obey God rather than man.
In life, moments will come when human expectations and God’s instructions clash. When that happens, which one will win your loyalty? Obeying God is not always the safest or easiest choice, but it is the best. It may come with isolation, rejection, or even consequences. But what fuels the strength to obey God above all else is a personal relationship with Him.
The apostles didn’t obey out of obligation—they obeyed because they trusted. Their level of obedience flowed from deep conviction and faith. That same level of faith-filled obedience is what God desires today.
How consistent is your obedience? Does it stand firm in difficult moments, or does it bend under pressure? If God gives an instruction that doesn’t align with your comfort or convenience, will you still follow through?
This is a reminder that obedience to God is a clear marker of spiritual maturity. If we can’t obey God in the small things today, it will be difficult to do so when the stakes are higher tomorrow. The tests will come. People will challenge your convictions. But only those who are grounded in truth and yielded in obedience will stand.
Obedience to God is not optional; it’s essential. The apostles showed us that obedience may cost us something, but disobedience costs far more. Their courage came from knowing who they served and trusting in His authority above human threats.
Living it Out
In times when God is looking for someone to stand with Him, may we be found faithful. Obedience isn’t always convenient, but it’s always worth it. Choose to stand with God even when it’s uncomfortable, unpopular, or risky. Let your loyalty to Him outweigh the fear of man. True obedience is revealed not in ease, but in the moments that test your conviction the most.