True obedience is revealed
Scripture Focus:
40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
— Matthew 25:40 (NIV)
Devotional Teaching
In The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats Jesus paints a sobering picture in this parable. One day, He will gather all nations before Him and separate people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The sheep step into eternal blessing because they chose to live out obedience in love. The goats face judgment because they ignored opportunities to act.
This story teaches us that obedience to God does not stop with believing the right things. Instead, it shows up in everyday choices. When we feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, clothe the poor, or visit the sick and imprisoned, we demonstrate love for Jesus Himself. In the same way, when we refuse compassion, we turn away from Him.
Therefore, obedience is not only about avoiding sin or checking spiritual boxes. It is about serving Christ by serving others. For example, the sheep didn’t realize they were blessing Jesus when they helped the needy, but their compassion flowed naturally from hearts aligned with Him.
The challenge is clear: real faith produces real action. True disciples of Jesus live their obedience by extending love, mercy, and care to those who need it most. When we serve others, we serve Him. When we ignore others, we ignore Him.
Here’s the heart of the lesson:
True obedience is revealed not only in what we believe but in how we live. The sheep didn’t realize they were serving Jesus in their actions, but their love flowed naturally from hearts aligned with Him.
The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats -Reflection Questions
- How does this parable challenge the way I view obedience?
- In what ways have I been guilty of overlooking “the least of these”?
- What small act of kindness could I offer this week as an act of obedience to Christ?
Journal Prompt
Write a prayer asking God to open your eyes to “the least of these” in your daily life. Ask Him to make you attentive to opportunities where obedience looks like compassion in action.
Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Thank You for reminding me that serving others is serving You. Forgive me for the times I’ve overlooked those in need. Open my eyes to see opportunities to love with my hands, not just my words. Make obedience my lifestyle—an overflow of Your love at work in me. May I be counted among the sheep, not by my strength, but by Your grace.
Amen.