DEVOTION – DAY 458

John 15:9-10 “Love And Obedience”

John 15:9-10 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in His love.”

Jesus said, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.” Jesus is saying that His love is without boundaries. His love is unconditional. That means that we do not need to be perfect, or fulfilling good deeds first before we can experience His love. But obedience and love are meant to go together. God the Son, loved God the Father. And God, the Son would always want to obey and do what God, the Father wants Him to do. That is why Jesus said He has always kept the Father’s commands and remain in His love. The same is expected of all Christians. We are to obey the Lord’s commands. Obedience brings blessings. Blessings naturally include God’s abundant love. 

A young woman was introduced to a young man. They found they had some similar interests and they became friends. But the young woman knew that the young man was a non-Christian. So, although they could be friends, she was clear that she could not allow their relationship to develop unless the young man became a Christian. She knew that God had commanded her not to be unequally yoked with another – she knew she must never marry a non-Christian. She knew she was starting to have feelings for this young man but she could only pray that the Lord would soften his heart and that he would be open to the gospel message. She made it clear to the young man that they could not get closer until he became a Christian. 

The Lord heard her prayers and in time, the young man followed the young woman to church. He was exposed to the gospel message. He eventually wanted to invite Jesus into his life as his Lord and Savior. Only after that, did the young woman allowed her relationship with the young man to be taken to the next step. They began dating as a couple. Before that, they would only go out together as a group, with other people. It was a hard thing for her to do. But she knew in her heart that God’s command was a good one and was in her best interest. 

We also know another woman who disobeyed God’s command and she married a non-Christian. She was influenced by her husband. She eventually stopped going to church and cut off all ties with people in Church. Her children were brought up as unbelievers. Today, she acts and behaves as a non-Christian.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for your blessed Word that reminds us to remain in you. Thank you for your assurance of your love for us. Please help us to always obey your commands and to stay close to you. We humbly pray in the most precious name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Questions

  1. What are some of God’s commands you find hard to obey? Share.
  2. Why is it important for you to keep God’s commands? Discuss.
  3. How have the Lord’s love for you enabled you to keep His commands? Share.