A Quiet Win … and What It Taught Me About Obedience
- Jennifer Goss
- Jan 16
- 3 min read
When Applause is Silent, But God Still Speaks
Some wins come with loud celebration — people cheering as you cross the finish line, tears flowing as the judge places a medal around your neck.
And others? They come quietly, after a long, faithful season of showing up when no one else seems to be watching.
Earlier this week, I received an email from the Assistant Director of COMPEL Pro, letting me know I’d been selected as one of the winners of their Social Media Writing Challenge I entered last month. Out of nearly 100 submissions, mine was one that was chosen to be featured on their platform sometime in 2026.
At first, I just sat with the email and let the words sink in. I reread it to be sure I hadn't misinterpreted the message. Not because I doubted it, but because it felt like God’s gentle whisper of affirmation; a reminder that when we say yes to His call, even in the small, hidden, everyday ways, He sees. And He honors our obedience.
And yes, I teared up. Because in that moment, it felt like the Lord was saying: “You’re on the right track, Jen. Keep going.” It was a great start to the week, not to mention the new year.
Obedience in the Ordinary
I love hearing from God. I look for Him everywhere. And while I try not to frustrate His grace by begging for signs, I love a little nudge ... It's like a divine reminder that I’m walking in step with His purpose, even if things feel messy, slow, or unseen.
The truth is, obedience doesn’t always look like a bold leap. Often, it’s the small yes: showing up to do the thing you were assigned to do, even when it’s hard, inconvenient, or underwhelming.
For me, that includes editing a book, writing devotionals, leading Bible studies … all while raising my son, supporting his schooling, running a household, and managing a small business. It’s a lot. But when God gives you an assignment, He also gives you the grace to carry it.
"You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus." ~ 2 Timothy 2:1 (NIV)
You Don’t Have to Be a Writer to Relate
Maybe your assignment right now is caring for a loved one, mentoring other women, working in the marketplace, or faithfully showing up for your family in a difficult season. Whatever it is—if it’s from God, it matters.
If you’ve been in a season of obedience without recognition, I want to encourage you: He sees you. He’s pleased with you. And your faithfulness is not in vain.
Even when no one else claps or comments. Even when it feels small or slow. Even when the results haven’t come yet. Your effort matters and it is not going unnoticed.
God is not measuring your success by outcomes: He’s pleased by your obedience.
Let this be your reminder to stay faithful, friend. Keep showing up. Steward the gift.
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" ~ Romans 8:28 (NIV)
God Sees You Trying
This quiet win reminded me that obedience often happens in the margins — when no one is watching, applauding, or measuring the outcome. But God sees every “yes.” Every time I sit down to write instead of scroll. Every time I show up instead of listening to that inner doubter, every moment I steward what He’s placed in my hands … it matters.
It matters because it matters to Him.
Obedience isn’t about visibility; it’s about faithfulness. Obedience isn't about working harder or faster either — because sometimes, obedience looks like stepping back to reassess which direction God is pointing us in next. And that is ok. You're not running a race against anyone else.
And this small, sacred recognition felt like God whispering, “I see you. Keep going.”
I've got lots on my to-do list for this year — God's got me working! But this little affirmation? It was just the fuel I needed to top off my gas tank.
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