Definition and Importance
Obedience over personal gain is a biblical principle emphasizing the importance of adhering to God's commands and prioritizing His will above personal desires or material benefits. This principle is foundational in the Christian faith, as it reflects a believer's trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when obedience may lead to personal sacrifice or loss.

Biblical Examples

1. Abraham's Sacrifice of Isaac
In Genesis 22, God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. Despite the personal loss and emotional turmoil this command entails, Abraham obeys God, demonstrating his unwavering faith. As Abraham prepares to sacrifice Isaac, God intervenes, providing a ram as a substitute. This narrative highlights the principle of obedience over personal gain, as Abraham prioritizes God's command over his own desires and the promise of his lineage. Genesis 22:12 states, "Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him," said the angel, "for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from Me."

2. Moses and the Israelites
Moses exemplifies obedience over personal gain when he chooses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, despite the challenges and personal sacrifices involved. Hebrews 11:24-26 reflects on Moses' decision: "By faith Moses, when he was grown, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to suffer oppression with God’s people rather than to experience the fleeting enjoyment of sin. He valued disgrace for Christ above the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his reward."

3. Jesus' Temptation in the Wilderness
In Matthew 4, Jesus is tempted by Satan in the wilderness. Satan offers Jesus all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship. Jesus responds with Scripture, refusing to prioritize personal gain over obedience to God. Matthew 4:10 records Jesus' response: "Away from Me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.'" Jesus' rejection of worldly power and wealth underscores the importance of obedience to God's will.

Teachings of Jesus

Jesus consistently taught the value of obedience over personal gain. In Matthew 6:33 , He instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This teaching emphasizes that obedience to God should be the primary pursuit, with the assurance that God will provide for the needs of those who prioritize His kingdom.

In the parable of the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-22), Jesus challenges the young man to sell his possessions and follow Him. The young man's inability to part with his wealth illustrates the struggle between personal gain and obedience. Jesus' teaching here highlights the difficulty and necessity of choosing obedience over material wealth.

Apostolic Teachings

The apostles also emphasized obedience over personal gain. In Philippians 2:3-4 , Paul writes, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This instruction encourages believers to prioritize obedience to God's commands and the well-being of others over personal ambition.

Practical Application

For believers, living out the principle of obedience over personal gain involves daily decisions to follow God's will, even when it conflicts with personal desires or societal pressures. This may include ethical business practices, sacrificial giving, or choosing integrity over success. The assurance of God's provision and the eternal rewards promised in Scripture motivate believers to remain steadfast in their obedience.

Conclusion

The principle of obedience over personal gain is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, demonstrating the importance of prioritizing God's will above all else. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, believers are called to live lives marked by faithfulness and trust in God's provision and promises.