Obedience
As we approach 2025, I have been stirred by the Lord on the need for parents to partner with Him into equip their children with essential virtues in Ephesians 6. Today, we’re exploring Obedience.
“Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do.” – Ephesians 6:1
The Urgency of Obedience
There’s an urgency in the Spirit to reawaken us to obedience. Obedience is one of the character traits that distinguish God’s children. It’s obedience to God, parents and constituted authorities.
The Alarming Trend of Disobedience
Research has shown that younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are less likely to prioritize obedience and more likely to value independence and self-expression. In the UK, for example, a study found that only 12% of people considered obedience an especially important quality for children to learn. This represents a significant decline from 1998, when 50% of the British population believed obedience was essential. While there is limited data for Africa on this, we can definitely see similar trend.
The Spiritual Significance of Obedience
The Bible warns us about the dangers of disobedience. In 2 Timothy 3:2, we’re told that people will become disobedient to their parents, and in Ephesians 2:2, we’re reminded that disobedience is a spirit that refuses to obey God.
As parents, we have a spiritual duty to discern the spirit of disobedience and refuse its operation in our children. We have a critical role to play in teaching our children the importance of obedience. We must also lead by example, examining our own lives to ensure we’re living in obedience to God. We must teach and train our children in obedience, highlighting the why behind this essential virtue.
The WHY
▶️Disobedience is submission to the leadership of the devil which gives him the legal ground to operate in our lives. It is a spirit which if allowed to penetrate, will further make room for other demonic infiltrations and oppression. We are to give NO room to the devil.
▶️We belong to a kingdom founded on the laws of love and obedience is the fulfillment of the laws of love. Jesus said if you love me, you will obey my commands.
▶️Every blessing in the kingdom of God where we belong is released through covenants which is premised on obedience; carrying out our part of the covenant.
▶️Obedience is the right thing to do. Obeying God’s word and parental instructions will keep them alive, well and flourishing.
Call to Prayers
Prayer is pivotal in this spiritual warfare. We must pray daily for our children, asking God to protect them from the spirit of disobedience and to help them develop a heart of obedience. Jesus is the perfect example of a life sold out to obeying God even unto death, He was completely surrendered to God’s will and purpose. Pray until Christ is fully formed in your children.
Conclusion
Obedience is not just a moral virtue; it’s a spiritual imperative. As we prepare our children for 2025, let’s prioritize teaching them the importance of obedience. Let’s pray for our children, asking God to help them develop a heart of obedience, and let’s lead by example, demonstrating obedience in our own lives.
What are your thoughts on the importance of obedience in our children’s lives and what are you going to be doing differently in cultivating the heart of obedience in your children? Share your comments below.
We will continue to unpack the necessary virtues to equip our children for the next season of their lives, please watch out for the next post. God bless you.
References:
• 2 Timothy 3:2
• Ephesians 2:2
• Galatians 4:19
• Philippians 2:5
• Exodus 19:5
