John 14 | Love and Obedience

December 14th, John 14

“If you love me you will keep my commandment”. -John 14:15

What is your primary motivation for obedience? Is it:

• Because sin is bad?

• Because you don’t want to get caught?

• Because you believe life goes better when we don’t sin?

• Because you don’t want the consequences of sin?

• Because you don’t want to hurt others with your sin?

• Because you don’t want to feel guilt?

None of these are bad reasons, but they shouldn’t be our primary reasons. Jesus says it very plainly, our primary reason for being obedient to His words is… love.

For me, I’ve thought a lot lately and even written a lot about what it means to flourish as a Christian. Over the last few months, If you would have asked me “Josh, why do you seek to be obedient?” I would have probably said: “Because according to Jesus, it is the way of flourishing.”

I see differently now. Jesus connects our obedience to Him and our love to Him so closely. Do I love Jesus? That’s a profound question and worthy of meditation. When I’m confronted with temptation, do I white knuckle my way forward? Or do I cultivate love for God? Maybe those aren’t mutually exclusive. But I have a lot to think about regarding this.

Reflection question:

What is your primary reason for obedience to God? If you are struggling to love God, remember that our love grows and feeds off of His love for us.

Falling in love with Jesus again,

Josh.