Scripture
15 “If you love me, keep my commands.
Reflection
This verse is simple enough in literal meaning, however, if we take a look at this passage in the context of the following verses, 16 and 17, we find that this simple command leads us down a path that may not be as easy as it seems.
“16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.”
What does love, keeping God’s commands and the giving of the Holy Spirit as an advocate have in common? Jesus knew in his words to the disciples that a life loving and keeping the commandments of the Lord would likely lead to the world looking at the disciples as foolish. He understood the difficulty of looking and acting different from everyone else due to following Jesus. And so he promised the Holy Spirit not only as an advocate, but the in-dwelling of the Holy Spirit to help embolden the disciples with the courage and strength to stand firm in difficult times; to be filled with the knowledge of truth in the face of a culture that stands opposite of God’s commands. The beauty of this passage is that this promise still stands true today for each believer who loves and keeps the Lords commands.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Follow the ACTS acronym in prayer: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication (Asking).
