Obedience. The dictionary defines it as “compliance with an order, request, or law or submission to another’s authority.” I don’t know about you but compliance with an order from another authority doesn’t sit easy with me. I’m the type-A personality. The one who likes to get things done. And to be honest, I like to be fully in control. Because of that, obedience never comes easy to me. It’s very hard for me to realize I’m not in control but someone else is.
This is probably why the newlywed time in marriage was hard for me. I was in a battle for control. But as the years have gone by I have learned that allowing Greg to fully lead gives me so much peace. Marriage is the perfect example of another relationship.
Our relationship with our Maker. That’s right – God. God wants us to submit to Him as well. He wants to be the lead of our life. My life. Your life. Wouldn’t you be filled with much more peace if you were to step back and allow God to lead you? If you are not a Jesus follower than I challenge you to read the book of Genesis. You will see through that book that how God moves when obedience happens and when it doesn’t.
How do we obey? It’s difficult, I have been a Jesus follower for a long time and I still struggle with obedience. But it’s the small things. It’s spending time with Him daily. It’s reading your Bible. It’s hiding God’s word in your heart. Loving others around you. As you deepen your faith you start finding ways that you can allow yourself to submit to another’s [God’s] authority.
The Lord is the Great Shepherd. Did you know that the main responsibility of a shepherd is the safety and welfare of the flock? Wouldn’t it be great to think the same of God? If you allow him the position of Shepherd, then he will keep lead you. That sounds great to me. I need to be led. And remember this doesn’t mean nothing bad will happen to you. Because it is certain in this life we will have trouble. But having a leader and obeying Him with what He calls you to will give you peace.
I always tell my kids…obey first. Maybe I needed to be reminded of that as well.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:10-11
Confessions of a Mom 