Why Partial Obedience to God is Disobedience

My husband had a saying for our children growing up. “Partial obedience is disobedience.” He wanted them to understand that doing half the plan would not get them the full reward. Another reminder we used to tell our kids was, “Don’t think about it, don’t hesitate, just do it.”

As children with a limited view of life, they didn’t always see how obedience would get them to their desired result. But we knew as parents that the path to what works was clear.

We are God’s children, and as our loving Father, He is looking for our full obedience so He can lead us to a place of healing. And He isn’t looking for back talk, endless questions or a mountain of excuses. He simply wants us to believe Him and obey.

When something is clear to us in the Bible, we just need to do it. We need to obey.

Let’s clarify something here. The Bible won’t provide a chapter and verse telling you to pick up the pieces of your life and start over in California. It doesn’t specify where you will find the person you’re meant to marry. But if you are wondering how to begin again, commit yourself to sit in silent moments of prayer. Bring your needs before the Lord. Read the Bible and listen as God speaks to you through it. Trust that He will answer.

In time and consistency, you will hear His voice. The Holy Spirit will give you a feeling in your heart. He will show you signs, bring you to passages of scripture or speak to you through others. He will ultimately tell you what to do. Romans 8:14 says, “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”

But to begin again, you must believe that the benefit of the end result will make the transforming process worthwhile.

Rosalinda Rivera is a CEO, entrepreneur, international speaker, producer and author of books like Dare to Begin Again: Let God Write Your Best Future, The Wonder Series including Wonder Women, and Wonder Mom, Seductive Slayers of Success: Harness Your Strengths to Take Control of Your Destiny, and others, in English and in Spanish. Rosalinda Rivera is both outspoken and passionate about helping others change their lives and accomplish their dreams. She is a sought-after speaker by major companies, non-profits and ministries around the world for her transparent and down-to-earth motivational style. Rosalinda is the executive director of New Life for Adults and Youth.