What impresses God?

Do you know what really impresses God?  Is it faithful attendance at church?  Is it tithing 10% of your income?  Is it being a 'good person?' Nope.  What impresses God is just simple obedience; genuine surrender to what He's asking you to do.

Jesus, speaking to a surrounding crowd, said "why do you keep on saying that I am your Lord, when you refuse to do what I say?" (Luke 6:46).  It's a good question.  We call ourselves "believers" yet, day in and day out, we do not do what Christ  says.  I'm not talking about accidental sin and human reaction-type of mistakes, I'm talking about willfully deciding to disregard the principles laid out in God's Word because they are inconvenient to our lifestyles.  For example, can you hear people (or yourself) saying:

• "I know the bible teaches forgiveness but you just don't understand how bad this person hurt me."
• "I think God would want me to be happy and He won't blame me for seeking out a relationship the fulfills me."
• "A critical spirit is something I was born with; there's nothing I can do about it."
• "You know, I just am too busy to get to know God.  He understands."
• "The government is taking too much of my money. I'm not going to pay if I don't think it's fair."
• "I don't want to encourage my spouse; he might get a big head."

On the contrary, when you obey - when you purposely do what Christ says, regardless of how it impacts your present situation - you put yourself  in the position to receive unbridled blessings from Him. 

Where is simple obedience a problem for you?  Why not consider where God is calling you to obey and...obey.  He'll help you IF you're willing.