Obedience seems so simple when I am asking it of my children. I instruct - they listen. Right? However, it seems a lot trickier when I am the child and God is doing the asking.
A few months ago I was really struggling with obedience to God with a particular issue. I clearly knew what he wanted me to do and I repeatedly refused to listen. During this time, I really struggled with doubt. Not doubt in God or in my faith but doubt that my God would continue to love me as I failed to obey.
One day in the midst of this on going struggle, my daughter taught me a lesson I will never forget.
I had a special surprise outing planned for my four year old daughter and I was so excited. An hour before we were supposed to leave she decided to dig in her heals and defy me at every turn. I was so frustrated. Couldn't she see that I had her best interest at heart. I wanted to scream, "I want to do so much for you, if you just obey."
It hit me. My daughters actions don't effect my love for her. There is nothing she could do to make me love her less. However, I can do so much more for her when she chooses to obey. My disobedience won't change God's love for me but I may miss out on what he is trying to do in my life.
Like a loving parent, God really does have our best in mind. Like a stubborn four-year-old, I occasionally fight those instructions believing I know best.
Are you letting God lead in every area?
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