Know then in your heart that, as a man disciplines his son, the LORD your God disciplines you.
Deuteronomy 8:5

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,
Philippians 2:12

Total obedience is the goal of "working out your salvation". It's a journey and a difficult one at that. Don't be afraid of it, though. God will be there to strengthen, discipline, and encourage you along the way. It won't always be pleasant, and you will never achieve perfection in this life, but God is gracious and forgiving, and he promises that the rewards will be worth the effort. God wants total surrender even if we don't understand and aren't fully capable. He wants a willing heart, not a perfect one.