Obedience is more than simply following rules. For the Christian, it is the visible expression of our love and trust in God. The Scriptures remind us that obedience is not optional but essential for a fruitful relationship with Him. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15 ESV). Genuine love for God produces a willing heart that obeys, not out of fear, but out of devotion. From the beginning, God has valued obedience above ritual or sacrifice. The prophet Samuel told King Saul, “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22 NIV). Saul’s partial obedience cost him his kingdom, proving that delayed or selective obedience is really disobedience in disguise. The obedient life is a life of alignment—our will lining up with God’s. Jesus modeled this perfectly when He prayed, “Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done” (Luke 22:42 ESV). His obedience led to our salvation, showing us that surrendering to God’s will can yield eternal impact. Likewise, Paul reminds us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God” (Romans 12:2 ESV). Obedience brings blessings and spiritual stability. “If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land” (Isaiah 1:19 ESV). It also proves our faith. “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22 ESV). When we obey, we demonstrate trust that God’s ways are wiser than ours (Proverbs 3:5–6 KJV). Take note of this illustration: “A father tells his children, ‘You must always speak kindly and be respectful.’ Yet the children often hear him shouting at their mother or belittling others on the phone.
“A mother warns her kids, ‘Tell the truth no matter what,’ yet they hear her lie about their ages to get a discount or avoid responsibility. The children learn quickly, not from the lessons spoken, but from the lives lived before them. Words teach, but actions preach louder.” In the same way, when we call ourselves followers of Christ, yet ignore His commands, the world around us receives a confusing message about the God we claim to serve. Take some time to reflect upon this question: If obedience is the evidence of love, what does your obedience say about your relationship with God today? Always abound in the faith, and never leave home without Him!
