I coach golf. One of the first things I tell a student is that I will tell them to do things that may feel uncomfortable, awkward or seem ineffective. They must make a decision to trust what I tell them or never improve.
If they only partially, or not at all, believe that I know what I am talking about, then inevitably they will not pay attention to what I tell them. However, after I demonstrate how to do it and they want to be able to do it as well, then they gain more confidence.
If they are willing to persevere through the uncomfortable stage by repeating and tweaking their swing then they suddenly begin to feel comfortable with the changes and they experience remarkable improvement.
The same sequence occurs in the Christian life. God’s Word is going to tell us things that are initially not comfortable, convenient nor popular. There is a tendency to doubt that by obeying God’s principles life will be better and I’ll be fulfilled and happy. My way seems best.
It all boils down to my willingness to trust in the Author and believe that He knows the best way to live, then devour every bit of instructions that He gives. My willingness to master all of His principles, applying them to my life, is the degree of my trust in His wisdom and character.
God graciously accepts us and keeps us, though we can never deserve it; however, He only involves Himself in our lives to the degree that we pay attention to all He tells us. No coach puts a player into the game who will not listen to what he tells him to do.
Jesus gave His example to gain their confidence stating, “And He who sent me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him.” They wanted the same relationship. Then He added, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.” (John 8:29,31) There is no short-cut to playing the game of life according to His instructions. Trust Jesus as your coach.