Have you ever struggled with fully obeying God? I have.

I once felt the Holy Spirit nudge me toward obedience. He was telling me to let go of some potential opportunities because I was giving them too much importance in my life; they were edging in on the place in my heart reserved just for Him.

These opportunities were like a box of chocolates. It was as if God was saying, “Wait! Don’t eat those. I have something better for you.” But, because I didn’t trust God, I didn’t listen so I gave into temptation and I “stuck my fingers” in all of these “chocolates of opportunity.” I still wanted to check out what could possibly be if God didn’t show up. I wanted a back-up. So, I hedged the line of disobedience without completely disobeying. And, because I hadn’t completely submitted to Him, He wasn’t ruling over me, so panic ruled my life instead. Have you ever been there?

Remember, we may partially obey God, but it’s still disobedience. Even if we are only “partially sinning,” we won’t experience peace, because it’s only where God rules that peace reigns.

We may partially obey God in a small matter like purchasing a car, or in something bigger like getting married, or following Him in a new calling. If God says to wait, or if he chooses another option for us, maybe we think, Well, it’s not really a big deal if I change things up just a little right? We must be careful not to deceive ourselves. We will reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7). If an attitude of unbelief and faithlessness creeps into our hearts, the next thing we know, we may end up heading down a path we had no intention of walking. Disobedience can be a slippery slope. Be careful to guard your heart with all diligence (Proverbs 4:23). This is the way to peace and life!

Additional Resources

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