Heart Shift and Motherhood: Finding God's Extra in the OrdinarySample

Just Do It

Obedience is not something we think about a lot as adults. We learn from an early age the simple concept that OBEDIENCE = GOOD, and DISOBEDIENCE = BAD. We learn that when we follow the rules, things generally go well for us. We learn also that when we disobey or ignore instructions, there are usually negative consequences.

As an adult, I hadn’t given the idea of obedience much consideration but now that I am the mother of two young boys, I think, talk, and pray about it daily. But as I’ve asked God for wisdom in teaching my children about obedience, He has flipped the script on me. He is humbling me about my obedience to Him.

It is clear to see in the Scriptures that obedience is a big deal to God. It is the key to abiding in His love (John 15:10) and entering into the blessings, promises, and purpose He has for our lives (Joshua 1:8).

So, how do you obey God? Well, it helps to remember the basics – obey is a verb. It is an action word. I recently heard a wise woman say, “The Word of God is not something you admire. You just do it!”

Practically speaking, we can’t obey God’s instructions if we don’t know Him, so becoming better acquainted with God and more attuned to His voice must be a priority. For me, this means doing exactly what you're doing right now - allocating time every day to read the Bible and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal His Word to me. It is important to pray - to simply talk to God and share what is on your heart and mind - and slow down enough to listen for His response.

Obedience to God doesn’t have to be in giant leaps of faith. It is our obedience in the small things day in, day out, that matter most (1 Samuel 15:22).

Let me say something right here and now – obedience has nothing to do with salvation and your right-standing in relationship with God. There is nothing you can do to earn the gift of salvation. You can’t obey enough to deserve it or disobey too much to exclude yourself from it. It is only through the sacrifice that Jesus made by dying on the cross that we can be saved. God loved us so much that He made a way for us all to become His children. When you give your life to Jesus your salvation is a done deal. And that’s incredible! But that’s only level one.

When we choose to obey God's Word, to align our lives with the instructions and direction He gives, He can upgrade us. As we stay close to Him and obey Him in little things, He can trust us with more.

Reflect:

What is one practical step you can take to obey God today? What instructions have you received through His Word or from the still small voice of the Holy Spirit? Take action - just do it!

Let's Pray:

Dear God, please help me to know You and Your voice. Help me obey You, and want to obey You, even when it’s hard, or doesn’t make sense, and when the outcomes are uncertain. Help me to worship You through my obedience so that I can abide in Your love.

We hope this plan encouraged you. Learn more about Heart Shift and Motherhood: Finding God's Extra in the Ordinary here.