A Life of Obedience

My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin… The man who says, "I know him," but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But if anyone obeys his word, God's love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did. 1John 2:1-6

Several months ago I did an inductive study of 1 John and was challenged by practically every verse. I just love God’s Word as it alone can pierce the heart, convict and move us toward change.

As I studied it seemed to me that God was speaking directly to me, asking questions, probing my heart, my walk, my obedience to Him. I began to ask myself, “Do I obey God’s commands?” (2:4) “Do I walk as Jesus did?” (2:6) Do I love my brothers and sisters?(2:9) Do I pursue the things of the world more than God? (2:15) Do I know truth? (2:20-21)

It was a challenge because scripture says that if I love God then I will obey, I will walk as Jesus did, I will love my brothers and sisters. I will pursue God above all else and seek to know truth. I quickly realized that I fail often in some of these areas –if not all of them. Not because the desire it’s there, but I battle my flesh on a daily basis.

So how do we live a life of obedience? How do we walk as Jesus did? As I reflected over my life, especially the last few years I realized that apart of the Spirit’s working and dwelling in my heart I can not. Without studying God’s word and learning truth for myself, I can not do it.

Jesus was always about His Father’s business. Jesus understood what He was placed on earth for and everything He did was working toward that purpose. It doesn’t mean He didn’t relax with friends over a meal at times, but I imagine that the conversation was not about the weather, or latest fashion trends.
Everything Jesus did was ministry, it was serving others and doing the will of the Father.

Can I say the same about my life? Do I obey what I believe God is calling me to do regardless of the cost? Regardless of the personal sacrifice?

If I truly love God and am His daughter I will always choose to be obedient and walk as Jesus did. Even if that means less lunch dates, shopping trips or “me” time. That is not what God has called me to and to be obedient I must be about my Father’s business.

What about you? Are you about your Father’s business? Are you willing to walk a life of obedience regardless of personal sacrifice?

May we all spend time before the Father today and ask Him to show us the areas we need to work on in order to be more like Him.