Obedience

If you ask my son how old he is, he'll tell you he's "almost two." A couple months ago, he repeated my answer to a sweet, young girl's question from a bathroom stall, of all places, and he's been on a roll ever since!  He loves to learn words and practice them.

Today, he learned a new one- obedience. I was so proud to hear him repeat the word clearly after me.  I explained the  meaning of the word, with examples of his obedience or lack there of.  Later this afternoon, I asked him to do something and he did it right away. When he completed the task, he smiled, looked at me and announced, "Obedience!"  He got it!  That's the first step, but he still needs a lot of practice. 

Now, you're a mom and you read that my son is almost two and I am teaching him the word obedience. I bet you figured out quite a bit of disobedience occurred prior to this shining moment, enough that it was of the utmost importance that he learn the meaning of this word and, fast!  Mamas of toddlers or mamas who remember those toddler years, can you relate?

God can.

Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them." - John 14:21 NLT

And, again...

If you keep my commandments, you shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken to you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.  - John 15:10-11

Tonight, I was obedient.  And He revealed himself to me. Because of my obedience, He was able to use me.  Sadly, though, like my young son, there was enough disobedience that God felt it necessary to remind me of the meaning of obedience.  The discipline was painful, but it made the joy in the obedience that would follow all the more recognizable.

As I've struggled through a new season of disobedience with my toddler, God has shown me areas where I've been disobedient.  A friend shared with me that "Growing Kids God's Way" encourages "first-time obedience."  How I want to obey God the first time, every time, in everything, don't you?

Challenge: What area(s) of your life are you struggling in right now?  Where are you discontent? Ask God to reveal any sin on your part in that area.  Confess to a friend who's not afraid to speak the truth in love about what she may see and hold you accountable. Praise God for his grace, ask for his forgiveness and do what he tells you.  Experience anew the joy found in obedience!  Your children are watching.  The world is watching.  And obedience is contagious!  I know, because I followed my friend's example.  It caught on and I am fired up about it.  You will be, too!

Will you pray with me?  Heavenly Father, we praise you that you love us enough to discipline us and train us in the way we should go.  Thank you for teaching us through our own children and help us to follow your example, in all things.  Reveal to me my sin, forgive me and lead me to victory in Christ.  Help me today to obey you the first time, every time in everything. Use my obedience to encourage others, especially those you have entrusted to me.  Let it spread like wildfire and may your people experience anew the joy in obedience to you, Lord.  In Jesus' name, I pray.