Barb's Bits - Obedience flowing from love

Obedience

The word can feel heavy, even restrictive.  A reminder of rules and expectations. But when we walk closely with our precious God, we begin to see obedience not as a burden, but as a beautiful response to His love. True obedience isn’t forced; it is the natural overflow of a heart that has been forgiven, healed, and transformed.

Fruit of the Spirit

When we first come to faith, we often try hard to “do the right things.” Why?  We want to please God.  Our obedience may come from fear of failure or a sense of obligation. Over time, however, as we experience His Mercy, (you know, the kind that meets us in our sin, our stubbornness, and our weakness) our motivation changes. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). Love is not something we manufacture; it is the fruit of walking with Him daily. When we remember what we have been forgiven of, when we sit quietly and realize the cross was for us, that awareness softens even the hardest places in our hearts. Then obedience becomes our love language to God. As Scripture reminds us, “In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3).

My Obedience

At the core of my 0bedience is a deep relationship with God.  Abraham trusted and obeyed because he knew God’s voice. Peter left everything because he loved Jesus. The more I walk with Him, the more I discover that every command is an invitation to life, to freedom, to intimacy. Each “yes” opens a door to deeper joy.

I invite you this week to pause and reflect: “Am I obeying to prove my worth or because I already know I’m loved?” Ask Holy Spirit to show you one area of obedience that can grow from gratitude rather than guilt. Remember, love fuels obedience, and obedience deepens love!  I refer to it as a holy cycle--transforming both your heart and your habits.

Nugget of Wisdom Obedience is the proof that we have internalized God’s Love.

Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your patience and grace. Please teach me to obey You not out of fear, but out of love. Help me to remember the cross each time I hesitate and to trust that Your commands are always for my good and Your Glory. Let my obedience become a daily act of worship that influences others for Your Glory. In Jesus name I pray.