Do you see obedience to Christ as a “have to” or a “want to?” Jesus says a remarkable thing to his disciples, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching” (John 14:23a).
Clean language, pure thoughts, selfless emotions, kindness; each are a testimony of our love for the One who died in our place. Doing what Jesus commands, in both our private and public worlds, is our constant opportunity to express love to him.
Obedience communicates love because it is the demonstration of surrender. Obeying him says, “Jesus, you are my Lord and Lord of this moment. Therefore, I choose what you choose.” And the seal of that confession is the doing.
So, when he calls for patience we show it. We when he prompts our hearts to mercy or simple faith, we give it. Worship, prayer, considering others better than ourselves; all proclaim his prominence in our hearts, for in those moments he is our Lord, and he knows of our love because we have shown him in our surrender.
“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” (Jesus, John 15:13:14)
Have you told Jesus you love him today? Now is always your chance. And you know, actions speak louder than words.
