Obedience Training Needed

This is my dog, Barlow.

He used to be obedient.

See Barlow sneak up on the couch.

See Barlow steal socks.

See Barlow snuggle under bed covers.

"Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient..."

Titus 3:1

When Barlow was a puppy, I meticulously trained him to the commands of "sit", "stay", "roll over", "off" (which means do not eat your food until I tell you to), and "go" (eat food now). He was a star pupil!  I could leave the room and he still wouldn't move until I told him to.

Seven years later, he is slacking. He has taken to eating before being told, helping himself to lounge on the couch, and worse of all -- pawing my bed blankets out of the way and snuggling underneath. I am appalled at his behavior, but wait...

What about me? 

Spiritually, I've been just as disobedient. I'm too independent, tending to only seek God when things go wrong. My prayers have been half-hearted snippets as I'm falling asleep. My praises have been half-hearted, as well. Consequently, I haven't felt very close to God lately. I've been a slacker. 

I, like Barlow, need remedial obedience training. 

God, please help me get back on track, to make time for You, for reading the Bible, for prayer. Forgive my disobedience. Amen.


Do you have trouble with obedience in your house (with dogs, children, or God)? 
How do you get back on track?