JOHN 15:9-12

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: love each other as I have loved you.

TO PONDER

God doesn’t give commands without good reason. He doesn’t threaten us if we fail to do his bidding, he is neither capricious nor arbitrary. God is loving. 

The biblical meaning of the word command is richer than just, ‘do as your told’ and do it without a reason. God’s purpose is to benefit us, and the whole creation.

A command is a health directive for the good of all creation. If we fail to follow our doctors’ orders, chances are our health will fail, and on our own head be it! God’s commands for our corporate health and wellbeing are the same. Obey, and experience the permanent joy of God in us, and at work through us. Disobey and reap the bitter consequences.

God’s purpose is to set the world in perfect order as he intended from the beginning. The first humans failed to extend the garden of Eden across the whole earth. Their failure has become Jesus’ victory and success. God is lovingly growing his garden and has called us to lovingly play our part to bring back original beauty and return enduring sustainability to our world. 

Remember: God commands because he loves us and wants us to inherit the earth. 

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, stand by my side and teach me how to love as you love. Teach me to work this earthly garden, to your delight and for our good. Amen.

Today's devotion written by David Schuppan, LifeWay Illawarra