Submission and obedience.  Wow, these are topics which we parents think about and often struggle with.  We want our children to obey us, but more than that we want them to make a conscious decision to submit their will to the authority of the Father first and then to us as their parents.

Sometimes it is difficult to perceive the difference between submission and obedience. There is a difference, however, and it lies in subtleties which are very apparent to the one who is either obeying or submitting.

Let me give you the definitions for the words “submit” and “obey.”

<b>Obey</b> simply means “to follow a command”; “to conform”; or “to comply with an order.”

<b>Submit</b>, though, means “to yield, or defer out of respect, superior authority, affection, persuasion, or compulsion.”

Now we can see that “submit” has a much broader application, and its uses are more definite, specific, and focused than “obedience.” Obedience can take place anywhere under any kind of circumstance, but in submission, a person’s will is involved, which is very important in regard to the development of character.   As parents, we want our children to be obedient.  But most importantly to communicate their thoughts and opinions to us and to allow us to have open communication, yet at the end of the day to choose to submit and bow their will to their godly authority.  In this process, as we seek the Father on their behalf, their wills and character will begin to take shape and to be in tune with His voice.  Our God is a God of order and authority.  Submission is paramount. He is King of all Kings.  How privileged we are to serve Him.

<a href=”https://candygibbs.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/images-4.jpeg”><img alt=”submission and obedience” src=”https://candygibbs.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/images-4.jpeg” width=”267″ height=”189″ /></a>

Here are some specific ways that I am praying for our teens:
<ol>
<li>Please pray that our daughters would have quiet and gentle spirits.  1 Peter 3:4</li>
<li>Pray that our young people would find peace and security in authority – that they would understand that their parents want to protect and guide them.  1 Peter 2:13, Hebrews 13:17, Ephesians 5:21</li>
<li>Pray against a rebellious spirit for each of them – that they would each love the Lord with all their heart, soul and strength.  Luke 10:27</li>
</ol>
Your prayers fill in the gaps and make all the difference in the world.  Thank you for standing!

My love, Candy