Posted by Gary on January 18, 2005
This wekend while traveling with John I got a cool revelation.
John 14:15 says; “If you love Me, (you will) keep My commandments. NKJV
We could have a whole discussion on the difference between being restrained by the law and being liberated by the law and maybe we will do that sometime but for this entry I want to make a different point.
John 15:14 says this; You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. NKJV
The word “commandments” in 14:15 in the greek means “precepts” Websters defines it this way; a principle intended especially as a general rule of action. In other words things that are known because they have been stated or written down. We’ll say God’s Word.
The word “command” in 15:14 in the greek means “to give charge” Websters says to give instruction.
So Jesus is saying that we need to obey God’s word as well as God’s voice. What is God asking you to do today? Now be careful. God is more concerned with who we are than what we do. He does not “need” us to “do” anything. He wants relationship above all else. So this is not about earning anything. This is about friendship with God.
The first thing we need to know is that God is a good God and worhty of our trust. When we understand that and read everything in that context. We will happily live according to the word of God and respond immediately when He speaks to us.
Psalm 25:14 in the NLT says Friendship with the Lord is reserved for those who fear Him. Fear in this case means to honor and respect. We show that by keeping His commands and by responding when He speaks.
We serve an amazing God who wants the best for us, John 10:10, as well as many others. So take the time to listen to His voice and learn to trust Him. You will not be dissapointed.
See you soon.
