“ If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:10-11
These days, we are seeing a phenomenon where the main purpose of life is to chase after happiness by following our heart and mind and going against any opposition: family, church and society. People are obsessed to reach self-fulfillment.
It is no surprise that the popular culture nowadays bombards our minds to be “anti” the norm and obedience. The same goes to with the idea of being yourself; this often seems more interesting compared to “obeying and submitting” to the authority over us (the government, family and God’s church).
What does the Word of God say about obedience? First, obedience is the example of Jesus. In his sinless life, he obeyed the Father in heaven throughout. This attitude is what the reflection of Jesus’ human characteristics, which means we have to follow this example. If Jesus as human grew mature in obedience, we must also go through the same process in our holiness.
Secondly, obedience is a command from God. He does not ask us to obey as robots – obeying by force because they have no other choice or obeying without love. This kind of obedience is not what the Lord desires. Even though we have the freedom to choose not to obey, we obey because we love the Lord.
Third is our obedience with God and His Word. This will bring us to obey our leaders also, like how David obeyed Saul until he died. Even though Saul truly hated David because of his jealousy, David still respected him. And the Lord was pleased by David and he was blessed throughout his life.
Lastly, obedience also produces joy. When we live in the obedience illustrated by the world, it is not right. On the other hand, obedience will bring fullness of joy. The joy and freedom we receive without living in obedience is false joy.
Let us grow in obedience in the Lord and we will see the Holy Spirit working even more in our lives. God bless.
Source : Article from GBI Gatot Subroto, Jakarta