Read John 14:15-26 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. What name did Jesus give the Holy Spirit in verse 16 and 26?
2. Who receives the Holy Spirit?
3. What action accompanies love in verses 15, 21 and 24?
Reflect
God’s love according to Scripture is much more than a feeling – it's an action. Jesus demonstrated His love for the world through His obedience to the Father. He willingly laid down His life on the cross so that all the sins of everyone who believes in Him would be forgiven.
We love because God first loved us (1 John 4:19). To love God means to believe what He says about Himself, to acknowledge Him as our Lord, to give Him the glory that only He deserves, and to obey His Word. If He truly is our creator and savior, then He’s worthy of our obedience. If He really is our good and kind Father, then His commandments are also good.
God’s love for you is unconditional and unchanging, so obedience isn’t a requirement for salvation. Instead, it’s the right response to everything He’s done for you. It comes from an overflow of gratitude. Obedience isn’t always easy, especially during trials, but you aren’t alone, and you aren’t expected to be perfect. God has an unimaginable amount of grace for you, and as you keep seeking Him, He’ll continue to reveal more of Himself to you.
Respond
What comes to mind when you think of obedience? How would you describe God’s love for you in your own words? What response does your heart give to what He’s done for you?