Neglecting Obedience & Service
Following Jesus means more than just believing in Him — it means walking with Him day by day, listening for His voice, and joining Him in the work He’s doing in the world. But when obedience and service slip into the background of our lives, we can find ourselves going through the motions of religion without the heart-connection that brings life. You might sense God’s call yet delay responding, or find yourself busy with activity but distant from what Jesus is actually asking you to do.
Spiritually, neglecting obedience and service keeps us from the fullness of life Jesus promises. Instead of responding to God’s invitation with trust and hope, we can fall into passivity, fear, or self-reliance — thinking we don’t have enough time, gifts, or strength. But Jesus doesn’t ask for perfection; He invites us to walk with Him one step at a time. The gospel calls us into a life where obedience flows not from pressure, but from love for the One who first loved us, and where service becomes a joyful participation in God’s work of renewal and grace.
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
— JAMES 1:22
But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
— MATTHEW 20:26–28
Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
— ROMANS 12:11
Resources for Helping with Obedience & Service
What Is Leadership?
A pastoral interview that explores the biblical meaning of leadership, emphasizing servant-hearted influence, humility, and Christ-centered responsibility rather than power…
Five Marks of a Servant Leader
An article outlining five key characteristics of biblical servant leadership, grounded in Scripture and modeled on Jesus’ example of humility,…
The 8 Steps of Christian Obedience
A pastoral interview that lays out eight biblical steps to Christian obedience, helping believers understand how faith becomes faithful action…
Explore Practices Help with Obedience
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An Invitation to Join Us @ Sonrise
At Sonrise Church, we believe real life change happens when people encounter Jesus, walk in truth, and grow together in community. You are welcome here—no matter your past, your struggles, or where you’re starting from. Join us this Sunday to take your next step toward freedom and formation with us. Jesus changes everything.
Sonrise Church
Service Times:
- Sunday : 9:00 AM (1st Service)
- Sunday : 10:40 AM (2nd Service)
At Sonrise Church in Santee, CA, we know that living a life of obedience and service can feel challenging — especially when responsibilities, distractions, or doubts crowd your heart. In East County San Diego, many wrestle with hearing God’s voice clearly, knowing how best to serve, or finding the courage to step into what God is asking next. Sonrise Church offers compassionate teaching and community rooted in Scripture that helps you explore what it means to follow Jesus faithfully and serve others with grace.
In Santee, El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lakeside, our church family gathers to support one another in learning how to obey God’s call and live out His love through service. Jesus invites us into a life where obedience isn’t burdensome, but freeing — and where serving others flows from the joy of being served by Him first. If you’re longing for clarity, courage, and purpose in obedience and service, Sonrise Church in East County San Diego is a place to take your next steps with others on the journey of faith.
Come discover how the gospel reshapes your life through obedience, service, and joyful participation in God’s mission.