Family Devotional

Michael's preschool sends out a family weekly devotional, which I love. Here was the most recent one that I'd like to share because I need it as a reminder too!

Scripture: 1 John 5:3

“This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome…”

Why is obedience so difficult? We try to teach our children from a young age the importance of obeying us, obeying other adults, and obeying God…but it’s not always easy!

I recently gained some new insight into the inner struggle of obedience…

My two-year-old has developed a very strong personality and a mind of her own. I know I certainly did not expect her to have such strong personal opinions at such a young age! I find it so fascinating to watch her in moments of decision. Maybe she is running away from me and I ask her to stop. I can almost see the inner turmoil on her face as she decides if she’s going to listen to me or continue doing what she wants. And, in the moments when she chooses to obey, I can often see a begrudging look on her little face, as if to say, “I’ll do it, Mom, but I am NOT happy about it!” Watching this on a daily basis has helped me realize that we all live with that inner struggle every day, even if we don’t show it quite so openly!

We often misinterpret the concept of obeying God. God doesn’t bark orders at us or make us do things just because He can. Rather, God knows what is best for us – always – and He wants us to live our lives believing that. He wants us to trust Him enough to say yes to whatever He is asking us to do. The struggle comes when God’s plan for us does not line up with what we want. In those moments, we have to make a difficult choice. Those moments are crucial. Those moments say a lot about who’s really in charge…

Obedience is really all about a love relationship. We love our kids and ask them to obey us because we know better than they do what is best. When they do choose to obey, it shows their trust in us. God loves us and asks for obedience because He wants to bless us. Our obedience is an amazing way to show God how much we love Him and trust Him.

If you find yourself struggling with the idea of obeying God, that’s okay. Just don’t give up! Start with love…

Do you love God?

Do you believe that He loves you?

If you can say yes to these two questions, then you are well on your way! Just like we keep working with our kids, He’ll keep working with us. Have faith in His love for you and His desire to see you choose what is best for you.

Parenting Challenge

Based on all that we know of God, I seriously doubt He would ever use the phrase, “Because I said so!” If you find yourself using this phrase a little too often these days, make a commitment to parent your children in the same way God cares for you. This might mean giving your kids a second chance, or taking a little extra time to explain to your kids why you have said yes or no to something. When you are faced with a situation that requires obedience on behalf of your children, remember that it’s hard for all of us to obey sometimes, and lovingly guide your child in the right direction. And, if they choose not to obey, keep working with them! After all, God doesn’t give up on us either!