Obedience — Living in Love
When you accept Jesus as Lord of your life, you declare your trust and commitment to obey Him because of His incredible love for us. True faith produces obedience—it’s the natural response to God’s grace. As Paul taught in Romans, obedience of faith is vital, and disobedience stems from unbelief. If we truly believe in Jesus, our actions will reflect that belief; we will walk in love.
Reflection and Application:
- What does it mean to be connected to Jesus?
Being connected to Jesus means trusting Him completely, following His teachings, and allowing His love to guide our actions. - Have you been involved in church or small groups?
Engaging in fellowship helps us grow in faith and walk in obedience. If you’re not yet involved, consider joining a community of believers. - Have you been baptized or are working toward it?
Baptism is a step of obedience that publicly declares your faith in Christ. - Are you spending regular time with God in His Word and prayer?
Daily devotional time helps deepen your relationship with God and reinforces your faith.
What Is True Love? (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
Love is patience, kindness, humility, and endurance. It’s not jealous, boastful, proud, rude, self-seeking, easily angered, or keeps records of wrongs.
Most challenging?
Being patient and forgiving is often hardest to practice. Because people can hurt our feelings, especially those we love. When they are mean to us or do foolish things.
How to allow the Spirit to produce this love?
Pray daily, ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with love, and practice these qualities intentionally.
The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)
Love is just one fruit of the Spirit. Others include joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
What qualities need growth?
If you notice a lack of patience or gentleness, ask the Spirit to cultivate these traits.
How to let the Spirit work?
Stay close to God through prayer and Bible study, and be receptive to His guidance.
Loving God and Others
Jesus summarized the greatest commandments: Love God and love your neighbor.
- Why two commands?
Because loving God naturally leads to loving others, and vice versa. They’re inseparable. - What does it mean to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind?
To love Him completely—putting Him first in everything, seeking His will, and obeying His Word. - How does loving God influence loving others?
It fills us with His love, making us more compassionate, forgiving, and patient. - Who is my neighbor?
Anyone in need—family, friends, strangers, even those difficult to love. - Who are the people in your life who may not feel loved?
Living in Full Obedience
Obedience to God isn’t optional; it’s about living all His Word—both the easy and the hard parts. Don’t come to church for appearances or pick what fits your lifestyle. Live fully in His love, practicing what He teaches, and let His Spirit guide you toward genuine obedience.
Heavenly Father, Guide our hearts and minds to walk faithfully in Your way. Help us to be obedient to Your will and draw closer to You each day. Fill us with Your Spirit so that we may shine Your light brightly to others, illuminating their paths with love and truth. May our lives be a beacon of hope and grace, bringing glory to Your name. Amen.
Joyful-Echoes 