In a previous post, we talked about societal challenges to obedience. We observed how various faith patriarchs stood their ground. They fought in unique circumstances. Yet, they chose to obey God. In this post we will focus more about own challenges to obedience and how we can cultivate submission.
This historical truth of our individual struggle to obedience forces us to think and understand that our strength is not enough. Our desires constantly pull us away from God’s will. The Bible describes this as a divided heart.Apostle Paul wrote about this battle. He confessed to a conflict between his mind and his sinful nature. “For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do” (Romans 7:15, NIV). This confirms a key truth about our human condition. We cannot fully obey God on our own. Our stubbornness resists His voice and commands. It is a deep, internal fight. In our own strength we are not able to sustain and tame our hearts.Now let’s explore this important question below.
How to Have an Obedient Heart
Winning the spiritual battle for our hearts requires reliance on God’s grace and power, not our own strength. The key to cultivating a submissive heart is found in actively engaging with God’s transformative work. We can win this battle. We can develop a heart that submits to God. It can only happen when we wholly lean on God’s grace and power. Here’s how to cultivate a willing heart:
- Rely on God’s Spirit:
True obedience comes from the Holy Spirit. He works inside us. The Spirit gives us power to overcome sinful desires. He aligns our will with God’s. Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you, to will and to act according to his good purpose”. God gives us the desire and ability to obey.
- Renew Your Thinking:
Our desires come from our thoughts. We are called to change our thinking. We renew our minds. This means making our thoughts agree with biblical truth. God’s Word can reshape our values. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
- Stay Close to Jesus:
Jesus said, “apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5, NIV). Our ability to obey comes from a close relationship with Him. We gain strength through prayer and reading the Bible. Spending time with other believers also helps. This close relationship provides guidance for an obedient life.
- Practice Surrender:
Giving in to God’s will is a daily choice. It is a moment-by-moment decision. We must give our will to God. This includes admitting our struggles. We turn away from our stubbornness. We intentionally choose to follow His commands. We trust in His goodness and wisdom.
The Holy Spirit’s Indwelling Role
The most important element in winning this battle is less reliance on our strength. It is more about God’s strength. We must admit our desperate need for Him. We must wholeheartedly invite the Holy Spirit to work within us. He will transform our hearts. He will empower us. When we believe in Jesus, the Holy Spirit lives inside us. He makes His home within us. This changes who we are. It gives us power to please God. The Spirit’s work includes:
- Empowerment:
The Spirit gives us strength. We no longer struggle in our own weakness. We draw on God’s power. God works in us. He gives us the desire to do good. He also gives us the power to carry it out.
- Guidance:
The Spirit lights up God’s Word. He helps us understand His commands. He shows us how to apply them. He leads us into all truth (John 16:13, NIV). He shows us what the Father wants.
- Conviction:
When we wander, the Spirit shows us our sin. This prompting leads us back to God’s path. “And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin” (John 16:8, ESV). This nudge helps align our hearts with God.
This is God’s continuous work of grace. We don’t just “try harder” to obey. We surrender to the Spirit’s work. We allow Him to transform our desires. He makes our actions possible.
Thank you for joining us today and for your faithful support. We pray that the Word of God takes root in your heart and produces a great harvest of righteousness.
We are excited about what is to come and hope you will continue to be with us. Visit us again soon for more encouragement and truth.
