Is living obediently about following a bunch of rules? Check lists? Trying to earn God's favor?
Not at all.
As a believer in Christ as your Savior, you have God's favor already! That's grace!
But being a "follower" of Christ means following His ways, joining Him on His path, becoming like Him--out of love for Him. That's another way of saying obedience.
Living obediently is growing to the point of saying, "Regardless of the consequences I will not compromise my obedience to God, or integrity, or what He has called me to."
It may cost you an opportunity in the short term, but it always is a "win" situation in the end (Matthew 6:33) because God is on the scene and has a plan!
More on this topic....
Did you ever look up to someone and begin to copy some of their ways, their style, habits, or speech?
Paul said we should be "Imitators" of God,
"...be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma" (Ephesians 5:1-2).
It is out of a relationship of love!
Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commands" (John 14:15).
We grow in our obedience by growing in our knowledge of His Word, the Bible, and by remaining in Him:
- Unit 2 explains remaining in Him and how to live that new life!
- Unit 3 explains growing by God's Word.
- Unit 4 explains the vital role of prayer in growing.