The operational definition of obedience is “eagerly yielding to God’s Word rather than following my own will.” God is our ultimate Authority, and He reveals His will to us through His Word. His way is perfect (Psalm 18:30), so why would we choose any other way? We are mistaken when we think that our joy is found in getting what pleases us rather than in pursuing what pleases God.

The opposite of obedience is willfulness. A willful person stubbornly insists on having his way. He may pout, delay, or do a job half-heartedly. He may offer excuses or “better” suggestions rather than simply obeying. He feels he has a right to be his own boss because he “knows best.” The Bible says that rejecting God’s Word is foolish and continuing to resist leads to a disastrous end. (See Matthew 7:26–27, Romans 13:1–2.) Disobedience is sin. The most severe consequence of a Christian rebelling against the Lord is the broken fellowship that results. When this occurs, confession and repentance (a return to obedience) are the keys to restoring the relationship.