Thursday, April 7 – John 14:15

“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”

 

If you are a parent or have seen a parent trying to give their child instruction for their safety and their own good, you have some understanding of what Jesus expressed in this verse. Even with good and needed rules, children often still go against their parents’ desires. Many parents would trade all the handmade crafts and flowery words to see their children respect the boundaries they have set for them, trusting that these boundaries are meant for their own good. When we look at God’s law, too often we only see limits instead of the abundance He has given us within them. We forget that He is the Author of life and knows what is best for us. In John 10:10, Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life and have it abundantly.” The Author of life knows your life. In the moment, the lie, coveting, and giving-in-to-temptation may seem worth it, but He knows the path of destruction ahead.

 

Following God’s commands leads us into communion with God because it is not something we can do on our own. It leads us into reliance on Him and keeps us walking in step with the Holy Spirit, who’s alive and at work inside of us. We can begin to ask what He would have us do instead of doing what feels right. We start to see life as He intended it to be, in communion with Him. May we not follow His commands as a chore but because we value our relationship with Him over any temporary pleasure or convenience. In this, we show our gratitude and love for the One who gave everything for us.

 

• What comes to mind when you think about God’s commands?
• How does it change your perspective to know God equips and empowers you to follow His commands, instead of you having to rely on your own strength?

Pray and ask God to change your heart and help you see His commands as more than limits but as an opportunity to rely on Him and live in the path He has made you for.