Obedience is defined by Miriam Webster: submissive to the restraint or command of authority : willing to obey. It’s safe to say I have always struggled with obedience and authority. I have always said I do not do well with authority. The saying, “The fastest way to get someone to do something is to tell them not to,” is completely me. For example, when I was seven my mother would tell me if I didn’t listen she would take my toys away. So imagine a tiny blonde little seven year-old standing under you with her hands on her hips and so confidently stating, “So I don’t care!!” followed with a head bob, eyes rolling and turning on a dime to walk away. That was me. Needless to say my parents realized early on they were going to have their hands full with me and I wasn’t even a teenager yet.
As an adult I still struggle with authority. I have butted heads with just about every manager I have had in the working world. There is just something about being told what to do that makes me kick and buck with rebellion. Rules have never been something I am a fan of. Yes, I am aware that things would be so much easier if I listened and obeyed but it’s just not in my nature.
Before being accepted to the race I prayed to God for discipline and strengthened faith. Low and behold that is EXACTLY the test He has given me. Here I stand with acceptance to an INCREDIBLE journey and leap of faith that will do nothing BUT strengthen my faith and force me to depend on God. I am getting what I asked for and so much more. Obstacles have quickly been placed in front of me back to back. I constantly feel like I am fighting an enemy that is holding me back from this journey. This time I am going to obey. I am going to obey God and His calling for me on this journey, because I know Acts 20:24 would not have been placed before my eyes the day of my interview for no reason.
Obedience is submission to authority. I am submitting myself to God and keeping my trust in Him that His plan is greater than my earthly selfish fears or rebellion. God tells us He will test us and obedience is my test. I will be a doer of the word and not just a hearer of the word.
