Any Given Day: 5

Obedience. Seems like a bad word. When you are a child, you are expected to be obedient. Obedient to your parents, your teachers, and whomever else is in charge. Some of us were more obedient than others...many of us rebel at some point along the way to adulthood.

As you grow older, you begin to realize that you can make a conscious decision whether to be obedient, and who or what to be obedient to. We tend to make our own decisions based on what feels good without thought to what God wants for us. We experience pain, suffering, humiliation, defeat, broken relationships, addictions, and all kinds of trouble.

When we turn back to God, he heals us over time. If we continue to be obedient, He rewards us with peace in our heart. To the outside world we may not seem very successful, and many will doubt our faith... but if we obey God to the best of our ability, we can put worry, shame, and selfishness away. Stop rebelling because you think you know what is best for you and listen to what God has to say! Today, ask him to lead the way and then follow!

Dear Lord, humans have been rebellious since the dawn of mankind and I am no different. Forgive me for my past mistakes and my personal rebellion. You know, better than I, what is best for me. Please provide the guidance and the discipline necessary to stay close to Your plan for me! Jesus walked to His death with obedience and without complaint. Give me the strength and the character that comes from You and You alone today. Amen

Romans 6:16