"For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."
John 3:16 (NIV)Few people enjoy every household task, yet for the love of family we cook, clean, and do the laundry wholeheartedly and regularly. For the people we love, we go out of our way to please them, even at the expense of our comfort and, in extreme cases, our lives. That raises a reflective question: but for the love we have for God, what will we do, and what will we not do? Scripture is clear about what He asks. He requires faithfulness (1 Corinthians 4:2), obedience (Matthew 7:21), evangelism (Matthew 28:19-20), regular gathering with the saints (Hebrews 10:25), love for one another (John 13:34), and keeping all He has taught us (John 14:15).
God's love set the standard. He so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, so that whoever believes in Him would not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). That sacrifice is beyond comparison, yet all He asks in return is that we love Him and keep His commandments. Is that too much to ask? As Christ's ambassadors, our obedience is how the world sees the reality of our love for the One we represent. So let us make a personal pledge today: but for the love I have for God, I will be faithful to Him, obey Him, make disciples, gather with the saints, love others, and hold to His teachings without adulterating them. What is your pledge today?
Lord, You gave Your only Son because of Your love for me. Today I choose to love You with my obedience, my faithfulness, and my service. Help me to do Your will at all times, so that my life shows the world that I truly love You. Amen.