The Strength of ObedienceНамуна

As parents, Rob and I often remind our kids that our love for them is not based on their behavior—it is unconditional. Whether they obey or disobey, succeed or fail, our love does not change. But because we love them, there are times when disobedience requires consequences. We withhold things we know they would enjoy or take away privileges they desire, not because we want to punish them harshly, but because we want to train their hearts. I do not enjoy disciplining my kids. What I want is to shower them with good things, give them fun experiences, and delight them with treats! But I know that if I never taught them obedience, I would be failing them as a mother.

Why do my children need to obey me? Because Rob and I love them and want what is best for them! When we limited JD’s sugar intake as a child, it wasn’t because we wanted to ruin his fun—it was because we cared for his health. That’s what love does! It sometimes says no for the sake of a greater yes.

This is the same way our Heavenly Father relates to us. God loves to bless His children. He longs to give us joy, peace, and every good thing. Scripture tells us that He does not withhold what is truly good from those who walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11). But just as we would never hand our child something harmful simply because they begged for it, God will never give us something that is not for our ultimate good—even if it looks appealing in the moment. And when we stubbornly pursue our own way instead of His, we miss out on the blessings He longs to pour out.

Through Jeremiah, God asked Israel a heartbreaking question: “What wrong did your fathers find in me that they went far from me?” It is as if God was saying, “Why would you run from My love? What did you lack in Me that made you chase after emptiness?” That same question challenges my heart. When I drift from God, what am I believing that He lacks? What am I saying about His goodness by running after my own way?

The truth is, there is no fault in Him. No emptiness. No absence of love. He is perfect in all of His ways. And His discipline—though it may sting in the moment—is part of His perfect love. Just as a good parent refuses to indulge what will destroy their child, God refuses to give us what will draw our hearts away from Him. His correction is not rejection; it is proof of His care!

Reflection Question: Where are you tempted to believe that God is withholding something good from you, and how might He actually be protecting you with His love?