You’re in the middle of building a LEGO tower or beating a level in your video game when you hear, “Time to do your chores!” It’s tempting to ignore it or drag your feet. But God wants us to obey right away, and not just to stay out of trouble. Obeying is a way to show Jesus that we love him.

This is part of The Grid for Kids. Your “grid” is like a sifter in your heart. It’s made of Bible truths that help you keep the good ideas and toss out the bad ones.

The Rock of Obedience

The fourth rock in your Bible grid is obedience. God gave you parents, teachers, and leaders to guide you and keep you safe.

Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.

When you obey the people God put in charge of you, you’re really obeying God.

Obedience Shows Love

Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). Obeying isn’t about following rules to earn points. It’s about loving Jesus with your actions.

Obey Fast

“Fast obedience” means doing what you’re asked right away, without complaining or stalling, and with a good attitude. The writer of Psalm 119 said it like this:

Psalm 119:60 I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands.

The Bible also says, “Do everything without grumbling or arguing” (Philippians 2:14). Quick obedience can turn a grumpy heart into a happy one.

The Takeaway

Obeying right away is a way to show Jesus you love him. This week, when a parent or teacher asks you to do something, stop and remind yourself, “Obeying now shows Jesus I love him.” Then do it with a smile.

Discuss and Dive Deeper

Talk about it:

  1. Read “The Takeaway” above together. What’s one thing you learned?
  2. What’s the silliest or funniest rule at your house?
  3. Read Ephesians 6:1 together. Why does it say kids should obey their parents?
  4. Parents, what chore or rule did you dislike as a kid? How did you handle it?
  5. Why is it hard to obey the first time when you’re tired or having fun? How can Jesus help you have a good attitude?
  6. How can your family practice first-time obedience together all week?
  7. Take turns praying, asking Jesus to help each person obey with a happy heart.

See also:

The Grid for Kids (Family Devo)