Thoughts On God’s Law

Love is the killer app

The word commandment has always rubbed me in the wrong way. I’ve always reacted to something that is imposed on me. I want to buy in, opt in, be well-informed and clearly understand what is required of me before I obey.

That’s why Bible verses like John 14:21 cause me to pause for a moment. Let’s read it:

“Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.” (John‬ ‭14‬:‭21‬ ‭NLT‬)

It appears at first sight that we need to be the ones who initiate the love equation with God. That’s not the case, though. God began the process when he “showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” (Romans 5:8 NLT). In other words, God loves us no matter where we are in our life’s journey.

Yes, we show our love by accepting and obeying God’s law. And yes, that will make God even happier. But not because we follow the law but because we get it. Get what? Get what the law is all about, namely two premises: 1) Love God, and 2) love others as you love yourself (Matthew 22:36–40).

Love is the common denominator, the killer app. When love is present, there’s happiness at home. And I say home literally because, according to Jesus himself, “all who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.” (John 14:23)

Subscribe me, Jesus! Please “open my eyes to see your instructions […] I am always overwhelmed with a desire for your regulations.” (Psalm 119:18, 20) The law of God is delightful from the perspective of someone in love with God.