The Blessings of Obedience
Obedience to God: Trusting His Plan Over Ours
As I was having conversation and small talk with one of my mentees, she mentioned that she had intended to call or text me a question about one of her devotional readings. The reading mentioned that she should “obey God” with no further instructions or context. Her question to me was, “What does it mean to obey God”? I never considered that question or even the fact that anyone would ask but I can definitely see the importance of knowing what it means to obey God in a world that values independence over everything.
Obeying God is more than simply following rules; it’s an act of love, trust, and surrender. In a world that encourages self-reliance and independence, submitting to God’s will often requires a level of faith that stretches us beyond our comfort zones. But at its core, obedience is an opportunity to align our lives with God’s perfect plan according to His Word.
The Bible reminds us, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Obedience isn’t about legalism or striving to earn God’s favor. Instead, it’s our loving response to a God who has already extended His grace. When we choose to obey, we’re demonstrating our trust in His wisdom, even when His instructions don’t align with our desires or understanding. When I used to keep sticky note reminders on my mirror, one of the notes read “To know God is to love Him, to love God is to obey Him”. There is a difference in knowing who God is and actually loving Him. When we truly love someone, it shows in our actions.
Obedience often calls us to let go of control, an act that can feel risky. Yet, when we lean into God’s promises, we realize that He is a faithful Father who knows what’s best for us. Whether it’s forgiving someone who hurt us, stepping into an unfamiliar calling, or surrendering our plans for His. Obedience is how we declare, “God, I trust You more than I trust myself.”
The beauty of obeying God is that it leads to blessings, peace, and a deeper relationship with Him. As Deuteronomy 5:33 says, “Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.” When we obey, we position ourselves to experience the fullness of His promises.
Obedience may not always be easy, but it is always worth it. It’s a daily choice to honor God with our thoughts, words, and actions, trusting that His ways are higher than ours. Let’s choose to walk in obedience, not out of fear, but out of love for the One who has given us everything.
