4/23/25 Obedience as an Expression of Love

Takeaway: Loving God through obedience.

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” – John 14:15

Opening Prayer (Wednesday)

Father, in the middle of this week, I lean on You for strength. When I am weary, be my rest. When I am uncertain, be my guide. Refresh my soul as I draw near to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection

Love and obedience are inseparable in our relationship with God. In John 14:15, Jesus makes a profound yet simple statement: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” This verse reveals that true love for God is not just an emotional feeling or verbal declaration—it is made tangibly real through our actions. Obedience is the natural overflow of a heart that genuinely loves Christ.

Too often, we view obedience as a burdensome duty, something we must do to earn God’s favor. But Jesus frames it differently. Obedience is not about rigid rule-following or religious obligation; rather, it is a joyful response to our love for Him. Just as a child who loves their parent desires to please them, our obedience flows from a deep love for our Heavenly Father. When we truly grasp the depth of Christ’s love for us—His sacrifice, His grace, and His continual presence—our response should be one of willing submission to His will.

Jesus’ words challenge us to examine our own hearts. Do we obey God out of love, or do we see His commands as restrictions that limit our freedom? The truth is, God’s commands are not meant to hinder us but to lead us into a life of blessing and closeness with Him. Obedience is an invitation to walk in the fullness of God’s love, experiencing His peace, joy, and purpose.

The key to loving God through obedience is trust. We obey Him because we trust that His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9) and that His plans are for our good (Jeremiah 29:11). Every act of obedience—whether small or grandiose—draws us closer to God and deepens our intimacy with Him.

Question

Are there areas in your life where obedience feels burdensome rather than joyful? What might be causing that?

Application

• Examine your heart. Do you obey God out of love or mere obligation?

• Start with small steps. Faithful obedience in small things prepares you for greater obedience in bigger matters. What is one step of obedience you can take today?

• Pray for a willing spirit. Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen your love for Christ and help you joyfully obey His commands.

Closing Prayer

Father, thank You for Your love that never fails. Help me to love You not just with my words, but through my obedience. Give me a heart that delights in following Your ways and trusts that Your commands lead to life. When obedience is hard, remind me of Jesus’ example and strengthen me to follow Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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