Obedience: The Path to Intimacy with God
- Illuminate the Truth
- Aug 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 14
By Ashton McGraw & Chris Jaeger In The Light of Truth – A Podcast by Illuminate the Truth.
Welcome to In The Light of Truth, a podcast where biblical truth meets real life. Whether you’re new to the Bible or have studied it for years, this is a space for honest conversations about the struggles, joys, and peace we experience as followers of Christ. Walking with God isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. Let’s grow together in the light of truth.
Obedience: A Display of Our Faith
Obedience to God is not about legalism or following a checklist. It’s a direct expression of our love for Him. Jesus said:
“If you love me, keep my commands.” (John 14:15)
“If you keep my commands, you will abide in my love.” (John 15:10)
“For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.” (1 John 5:3)
We don’t obey to earn salvation — salvation is a gift from God by grace alone. We obey because we love Him, we trust Him, and we want to be close to Him.
When we resist obedience, it’s often because we’re afraid of letting go — of pride, unforgiveness, habits, or comforts. Yet every time we surrender, we find peace.
As one devotional from "She Reads Truth," put it, “God’s will for us is our best-case scenario.” His commands are not chains — they’re the key to true freedom.
Struggling With Obedience
We’ve both had seasons where obedience was hard.
Chris’ story: The Lord convicted me to give up drinking wine. I told myself it wasn’t a sin because I wasn’t always drunk, but I knew He was asking me to surrender it. It felt impossible — until I finally said, “Okay, Lord, I’m willing.” From that moment, His grace took over. The desire left, and I experienced one of the greatest displays of His power in my life.
Ashton’s story: I came to faith in college, surrounded by a drinking culture. Saying “no” meant losing friends and being judged. It was uncomfortable and lonely. But obedience led me to find deep community in Christ, real joy, and lasting relationships. What felt like loss turned into blessing. Obedience often feels costly in the moment — but the reward is intimacy with God.
Why It’s Hard — and Why It’s Worth It
The world often mocks obedience, painting it as restrictive. But the truth is the opposite. The enemy offers instant gratification that leaves us empty. God offers lasting peace, even if it comes through surrendering something difficult.
Like the Israelites in the wilderness, God tests our faith. Will we trust Him? Will we believe He knows what’s best, even when it’s uncomfortable?
One analogy we love is from She Reads Truth:
Obedience is like putting on a wool sweater. At first, it feels itchy and uncomfortable. But over time, you realize it was made for warmth and protection — exactly what you need.
Practical Steps for the Path to Intimacy with God in Obedience
Pray without ceasing. Bring your desires, fears, and struggles before God. Ask Him for strength to follow His will.
Listen and wait. Some answers are clear in Scripture, others require patience and discernment.
Journal with God. Write prayers, pros and cons, and impressions as you seek His guidance.
Surrender daily. Say, “Lord, Your will be done,” and mean it — even in the small things.
A Loving Father’s Commands
Think of a parent telling their child “no” to eating candy all day. It’s not punishment — it’s love. God is our perfect Father. His commands are for our protection, provision, and peace.
If there’s something you’ve been resisting, ask yourself: What is God calling me to be obedient in right now? Maybe it’s letting go of a habit, saying “yes” to a hard calling, or making a change you’ve been afraid of.
Remember: Obedience isn’t losing — it’s gaining the life God created you to live. It’s the path to deeper intimacy with Him.
🎧 Listen to Episode 6: "Obedience, the Path of Intimacy to God" on Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/episode/3S4T0ObBlrK5HPJlX2M9Ey?si=TB2RWQQFTKyMCuGmTRVCIw
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