Deuteronomy 13:4: It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.

Daily Devotion, March 16, 2021

Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. ⁴ He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. ⁵ But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. ⁶ He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked (1 John 2:2-4).

John wrestles with the question, “Who knows God? Who is truly abiding in Him?” Many people claim to be Christians. They have confessed faith in Jesus. They have been baptized. They are members of a church. While confession, baptism, and church involvement are important, they do not guarantee that we are redeemed. John reveals the heart of the matter, the centrality of keeping the commandments of Jesus. True Christians are obedient Christians.

What does God call persons who profess faith in Jesus but do not obey Him? He is blunt. They are liars who know not the truth. Wow! I would hesitate to call any professing Christian a liar, but God is not hesitant to speak the harsh reality. True faith brings a new birth, a desire to follow and obey Jesus. True Christians embrace a new way of life governed by the commands of God. If that is lacking, true faith is lacking. That is what the above verses teach. We need to listen!

Almighty God, our Father, open my ears to hear Your Word. I love the idea of forgiveness and eternal life, but I know my obedience is weak. Keep me from going through the motions of being a Christian while neglecting the heart of the matter. True faith leads to obedience to Your commands. Please help me in my quest to walk with Jesus. In His name, I pray, Amen.