I followed a car the other day that had its blinker on but drove for miles without turning. I wondered how often we go through life with a spiritual blinker on, intending to turn but finding it easier to stay on the path we’re following.

There’s a difference between intentions and obedience.

Here’s what God’s Word says about intentions:

People may make plans in their minds, but only the Lord can make them come true. You may believe you are doing right, but the Lord will judge your reasons. Depend on the Lord in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. (Proverbs 16:1-3)

My children, we should love people not only with words and talk, but by our actions and true caring. (1 John 3:18)

Most of all, you must understand this: No prophecy in the Scriptures ever comes from the prophet’s own interpretation. No prophecy ever came from what a person wanted to say, but people led by the Holy Spirit spoke words from God. (2 Peter 1:20-21)

Why do you call me, “Lord, Lord,” but do not do what I say? (Luke 6:46)

Here’s what God’s Word says about obedience:

If you love me, you will obey my commands. (John 14:15)

Do what God’s teaching says; when you only listen and do nothing, you are fooling yourselves. (James 1:22)

Those who know my commands and obey them are the ones who love me, and my Father will love those who love me. I will love them and will show myself to them…If people love me, they will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. (John 14:21,23)

You are God’s children whom he loves, so try to be like him. Live a life of love just as Christ loved us and gave himself for us as a sweet-smelling offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:1-2)

Thinking about doing something in God’s name but not doing it isn’t obedience. Doing something because you think it’s good isn’t the same as doing something in God’s name and isn’t obedience. Obedience isn’t about legalism; it’s about a responsive relationship with God.

How responsive is your relationship with God?

“Even the best of intentions hold little value without their fulfillment in obedience to God’s directive, paying no heed of any personal inconvenience.” (Anonymous)