“If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you.” John 15:10–14

Obedience is not to be equated with drudgery; it is all about joy. Just as Jesus had great joy in obeying his Father even in the midst of opposition, so Christians will have joy in obedience. The words ‘you are my friends’ implies personal interaction with God. In the Old Testament, only Abraham and Moses are called “friends of God.” Here Jesus extends this privilege to all obedient believers. Such is the power of obedience to draw us into a close relationship with the Father.

Ponder:
What words come to mind when you hear ‘obedience’? Why do you think it can be challenging to see obedience and love equated with one another? What do Jesus’ words here tell you about God’s character?

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You that You love me. What is man that You would think of us? I am so humbled by Your care and kindness, Your mercies that are new every morning. Thank You for calling me friend. I want to know You more, Lord, and to live in a way that glorifies You. Help me understand that obedience is an expression of love that leads to a deeper relationship with You, not an obligation or performance necessary to earn Your good will. Thank You that I am justified by faith, not works. Help me do what pleases You because I love to show You how much You mean to me.
In Jesus name I pray, amen.