If an archer could calculate precisely the principles of kinetic energy with respect to arrow velocity, bow torque, and a million other factors, he would hit his target every time. But of course, this is impossible—the laws of physics are challenging. Thankfully, God has given us simpler laws by which to govern our lives. One of the most basic, yet important, principles a Christian can ever learn is that of obedience. The law is simple: when we obey God, we will experience His blessing. When we don't, we will miss out on that blessing.

    The more familiar we become with God's Word, the more we will understand obedience. God's laws are not designed to deprive us of pleasure or prosperity; rather, they are intended to protect us from hurting ourselves and others, and to guide us toward the bounty in life that He wants us to enjoy.

    As we consider life's decisions, we will be tempted to compromise Scripture's express teaching in favor of worldly ways. We all have God-given desires and appetites, which can be satisfied either as He designed or in selfish, harmful ways. Throughout our entire life, we will encounter opposition to the Bible, but obedience involves the commitment to obey the Lord, regardless of the consequences.

    Oftentimes obedience involves choices that we fear could result in rejection, loss, or hardship. Sometimes our decision to follow God brings about unwanted confrontation— obedience takes courage. But no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, we can respond to them with confidence in the One who empowers us to do His will. Has God ever made a mistake, been too late, or proven inadequate? No! Our heavenly Father is all-powerful and consistently faithful.

    The laws of Scripture are profound, yet easy to understand: the Bible teaches that we will reap what we sow, more than we sow, later than we sow. When we obey God, we will always get His best; when we don't, life will be much harder. Of course, we do not always do what we should, and there is grace in those situations. For Christians, however, making a commitment to obey God is both wise and essential to our faith.

    Obedience and faith are inseparable. We can demonstrate our trust in God by complying with His will. When we do so, we will reap the rewards He has designed for us—and we will hit our target every time.