Obedience is not optional………

“It is like a person building a house who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against that house, it stands firm because it is well built.  But anyone who hears and doesn’t obey is like a person who builds a house without a foundation.  When the floods sweep down against that house, it will collapse into a heap of ruins.”  Luke 6:48-49 NLT

Obedience.

What comes to mind when you hear the word?

Whatever thoughts or images “obedience” conjures up for you are negative.  It means doing what’s necessary, but not fun.

From the earliest age, when we first begin to understand the most elementary language, “obey” quickly becomes an unwelcomed term. It always means putting our instincts on hold to do someone else’s bidding.

Obey your parents. Obey your sitter. Obey your older sister or brother. Obey your teachers. Obey your scoutmaster. Obey the crossing guard. Obey your coach. Obey your boss. Obey…..Obey…..Obey…………

By the time we reach adulthood, we’ve been heavily programmed to think of obedience as unpleasant and that obeying is required in every situation which means our natural inclinations are wrong, and that following the rules is what matters.

Obedience is a concept that is not at all popular in our culture today.

We don't like the whole concept of obedience.  We would rather be obeyed than obey.  It is just not a popular thing today.  Obedience is always hard and it is always difficult.  It always has to do with sacrifice, which has to do with giving up something, losing something, letting go or separating from something.

Obedience is not at all popular in our culture of winning.  Obedience is always difficult because sometimes, especially when it comes to God, obedience seems to be rather unreasonable.

Simply stated...obedience means to do what Jesus wants you to do. It is an "action" word in response to trust.

Obedience to Christ means you willingly submit to God's will in the spirit of faith and love for Jesus.  It's a conscious act of the will to conform your will to His.

God gives every one of us in this world a free will.  You can choose to accept Him or reject Him as your personal Savior. You can choose to keep His commandments and obey His instructions or not.  He does not force himself on you.  He does not make you do anything against your will.

God allows you the freedom to choose how you live your life from day to day. But if you choose to do whatever you want without seeking to know His will, do not expect God to bless you.  If you are not living in obedience to Christ, you will eventually suffer for your disobedience; either by poor health, lost opportunities, marriage problems, money troubles, and ultimately.....death and eternity in Hell if you continue to choose to reject Him.

By not wanting to live as God commands or not working to live as God wants, you have basically told the Lord to leave you alone. You have told Him not to bother you with His rules and commandments because you are in control of your life.

You think you can get to Heaven by your own good works. Or... find your own blessings, satisfaction, and happiness in your own way and on your own terms.

 Do you think you have better goals for your life than what God has planned for you? Think twice because God will correct His children to get them on the right track.

Do not expect to get your prayers answered if you are not in obedience to the steps He asks you to take.

God will bless obedience. To receive His blessings, protection, and answers to prayer, you need be in obedience to Christ in your walk with Him.

Obedience is not optional.

“If you love me, obey my commandments.”  John 14:15 NLT