Love Equals Obedience

If you [really] love Me, you will keep and obey My commandments. (AMP)

As I continue working through John 14, this is probably one of the most challenging passages. Christ had just told His disciples how to show their love for Him. True love would not be just emotional and theoretical, it would be lived out daily by obeying His words. He wasn’t just referring to the Ten Commandments, but to His words to them over the last three years as they walked with Him. He was leaving them, and He was telling them to walk like him, talk like Him, love like Him, become more like Him with every act of faith and obedience to Him.

I can see the disciples looking at each other like, does He know what He is asking? Of course we love Him, but…  But what? We walked with Him in the flesh and yet, doubted, denied, failed and questioned his tactics. Now, He is leaving us and is asking what looks like the impossible! Notice, Jesus didn’t mention their past faults and failures, He seems to be saying,” since” you love me, I know you want to keep my commandments.  I know you are feeling overwhelmed at the thought of me not being here to guide you, but don’t worry, I have a plan. First, you must concentrate on what love for Me looks like.

So, the question today is, how much do I love Jesus? Have I completely surrendered my life to Him?  Do I obey His commands 100% of the time, or just when it is convenient or fits my lifestyle?  Do I consider how much He loves me, and that my disobedience breaks His heart. If you are a parent, you understand that kind of heartbreak. Do I realize how much my obedience pleases Him and what He can accomplish through me for the kingdom. Oh, Father, I do not want to break Your heart or ignore your commands. I want to live in daily obedience to Your commands and glorify Your Name with my life. Thank You for loving me and providing all I need to live in obedience to Your will.