Finally, a closer relationship with God is built upon a life of obedience. Jesus told His disciples in the upper room, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Then we see how Jesus himself was obedient to the point of death on the cross. James tells us that as we submit ourselves to God through obedience, resist the devil, and draw near to God, He will draw near to us. Paul tells us in Romans that our obedience is our “living sacrifice” of thanksgiving to God.
We must keep in mind that all biblical exhortations to obedience are presented as our response to the grace of God we receive in salvation. We don’t earn salvation through our obedience; rather, it is the way we show our love and gratitude toward God.
The power to have faith and walk in obedience is found in the grace of the Gospel. Focusing on our salvation and the Gospel message is how we become more obedient and we do so because we love God.
Jesus answered him, "If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.
John 14:23 ESV
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
James 4:7-8 ESV
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.
Romans 12:1 ESV
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