Today, I want to reflect on a powerful verse from the Bible, John 14:21. In this verse, Jesus reveals a deep connection between love, obedience, and revelation.
He says, “He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” This single verse carries profound meaning and guidance for our spiritual walk.
Understanding the Commandments
Jesus begins by emphasizing the importance of “having” His commandments. This means that we must know and understand what He expects of us. It’s not enough to be familiar with what He says; we need to internalize His teachings. For instance, Jesus teaches us to come to Him when we are burdened, promising rest for our souls (Matthew 11:28-30). He also warns us against trying to serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). Knowing these commandments is the first step.
However, simply knowing isn’t sufficient. Jesus goes on to say that those who truly love Him will “keep” His commandments. Obedience is where knowledge meets action. Just as a driver needs to know and follow the rules of the road, we need to know and follow God’s instructions to stay on the path of righteousness. Obedience is the evidence of our love for Christ.
Building a Relationship with God
One crucial question arises: How can we build a deeper relationship with God? The answer lies in this very verse. To truly grow in our relationship with Jesus, we must not only know His commandments but also keep them. When we do this, Jesus promises that both He and the Father will love us, and He will reveal Himself to us.
Imagine trying to maintain a friendship where you never listen to or consider the other person’s advice. That relationship would stagnate. The same principle applies to our relationship with God. Obedience opens the door to deeper intimacy with Him. It’s not just about attending church services or reading the Bible; it’s about living out His commandments daily.
The Role of Grace in Obedience
We cannot walk this path of obedience alone. It requires grace—God’s empowering presence in our lives. Ephesians 2:8 reminds us that it is by grace we are saved, and this same grace enables us to obey. But grace also requires our cooperation. After we pray for grace, we must actively align our actions with it. This means making choices that reflect our commitment to God’s will, even when it’s difficult or contrary to our feelings.
After we pray for grace, we must actively align our actions with it.Grace is a powerful gift. It is by grace that God sent Jesus to earth to save us. If grace can accomplish our salvation, it certainly can help us live in obedience. As we pray for grace, let us also commit to aligning our lives with the commands of Christ, trusting that He will guide and empower us.
In conclusion, obedience is the key to unlocking a deeper relationship with God. As we keep His commandments, we draw closer to Him, experiencing His love and presence more fully. Let us embrace this journey of obedience with the confidence that God’s grace will guide us every step of the way.
Don’t let sin win.
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