Why Do You Call Me “Lord, Lord,” and Do Not Do What I Say?

Read

Luke 6:46 "Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?"

Think

Do you ever tell God “yes” with your lips but “no” with your life? Maybe you nod along in church, sing “Jesus, you are Lord” with hands raised, but when he calls you to trust him with your finances, forgive that person, or step out in faith—you hesitate. You wait for better timing. You justify why obedience is for other Christians, not you. Jesus’ words in Luke 6:46 cut through the noise: “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?”

A.W. Pink put it plainly: “The Lordship of Christ is not a mere title, but a reality.” If Jesus is truly Lord, then his words aren’t optional. Lord means Master. King. Authority. But if we pick and choose which commands we’ll obey, is God really Lord in our lives—or just a figurehead?

Tim Keller once said, “Jesus cannot just be liked; you either kill him or crown him in your life.” That’s uncomfortable. Because real obedience costs something. It might mean swallowing your pride and apologizing. Letting go of control and trusting God with the unknown. Saying “yes” to something terrifying. Walking away from something unhealthy. Jesus never said, “Agree with me.” He said, “Follow me.” And following always requires movement.

So where is Jesus calling you to obey? Where have you been saying “Lord, Lord” but doing your own thing? Obedience isn’t about perfection—it’s about surrender. He’s not asking for your performance; he’s asking for your heart. Jesus is standing before you today, asking, “Am I truly Lord in your life?” And the real answer isn’t in your words—it’s in what you do next.

Apply

Obedience isn’t a feeling—it’s a choice. If Jesus is prompting you to do something, do it today. Make the call, extend the forgiveness, step out in faith. Don’t wait for a “better” time.

Pray

God, I don’t want to just call you “Lord”—I want to truly follow you. Show me where I’ve been holding back, and give me the courage to obey, even when it’s hard. Help me to trust that your way is always better than mine. In Jesus’ name. Amen.