The Strength of ObedienceSample

Children naturally live under the authority of their parents. This is something almost everyone understands. Even in homes where the Bible is not believed or where faith is absent, there is an expectation that children obey their parents. And when they do not, parents step in with discipline—not out of cruelty, but to teach their children what is good, safe, and right. In the same way, our Heavenly Father calls us to live under His authority, not to restrict us, but to protect us and to bless us.

When we believe in the name of Jesus Christ, we are given a new identity—we become children of God! That truth is so simple and yet so profound. It means we are no longer spiritual orphans, left to figure out life on our own. We are His, and with that identity comes both security and responsibility. Just as children are cared for, guided, and corrected by loving parents, so we are cared for, guided, and corrected by our Father in heaven.

But if we are honest, many of us struggle to fully embrace this role. So let me ask you: Do you live as if you must take care of yourself without the help of your Heavenly Father? Do you act as though you are self-sufficient, completely capable of providing everything you need on your own? Or do you recognize your need for Him—not just for salvation, but for daily life, wisdom, and strength?

Do you need to be taught to obey your Heavenly Father? Does your life feel out of order when you place yourself in the position of authority rather than living under His? Do you truly believe that God knows more about you than you know about yourself—that His perspective is wiser, His plans are better, and His timing is perfect? Do you believe that He loves you more than you even love yourself, and that His care for your welfare and happiness far exceeds your own?

These are not small questions; they cut to the core of what it means to live as a child of God. To be His child is to rest under His care, to trust His authority, and to obey His Word. It is to let go of the illusion of control and admit that He is both wiser and kinder than we could ever be to ourselves.

My prayer is that these questions stir your heart to reflect on your relationship with your Heavenly Father—not as a distant authority figure, but as a loving Parent who delights in calling you His own.

Reflection Question: In what areas of your life are you still trying to act as your own authority, and how can you begin to rest more fully in your Heavenly Father’s care and guidance?