In what ways can we ensure we "follow His commandments" in modern society? Scripture Focus 1 John 2:3 – 6: “By this we can be sure that we have come to know Him: if we keep His commandments. Whoever says, ‘I know Him,’ but does not keep His commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But if anyone keeps His word, the love of God has truly been perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him: whoever claims to abide in Him must walk as Jesus walked.” Why Commandment-Keeping Matters • Reveals genuine relationship with Christ—obedience is the family resemblance (John 14:15). • Expresses love for God more loudly than words (1 John 5:3). • Guards our lives from deception and destructive choices (Psalm 19:7-11). • Shines as a compelling witness to a watching world (Matthew 5:16). Practical Ways to Follow His Commandments Today • Stay in the Word daily—read, memorize, and meditate so His directions become second nature (Psalm 1:2; Colossians 3:16). • Invite the Holy Spirit’s guidance; He empowers obedience, not mere will-power (Galatians 5:16-25). • Choose a local church that teaches Scripture plainly and practices mutual accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Practice immediate obedience in small matters; delayed obedience often becomes disobedience (James 1:22-25). • Filter entertainment and online activity through Philippians 4:8—if it fails the test, reject it. • Cultivate love for neighbor with tangible acts: forgive quickly, speak truthfully, serve generously (Ephesians 4:25-32). • Honor God with finances—tithe, avoid debt slavery, give to the needy (Proverbs 3:9-10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Engage civic life with integrity—vote, work, lead, and protest in ways that reflect justice and mercy (Micah 6:8). • Guard the Sabbath principle: carve weekly time for rest and worship to realign priorities (Exodus 20:8-11; Mark 2:27). • Keep short accounts with God—confess sin quickly, receive cleansing, start fresh (1 John 1:9). Guardrails for Daily Obedience 1. Morning surrender: “Lord, I’m Yours—order my steps” (Psalm 143:8). 2. Scripture before screen: God’s voice precedes every notification. 3. Three-part filter for decisions: Is it biblically permitted? Does it honor Christ? Will it bless others? 4. Accountability partner who asks hard questions weekly (Proverbs 27:17). 5. Evening review: celebrate victories, confess failures, plan corrections (Lamentations 3:40). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Deuteronomy 6:5-9—teach His commands diligently to the next generation. • Joshua 1:8—prosperity and success are tied to meditating on and doing the Law. • Psalm 119:9-11—hiding His word in the heart guards from sin. • Romans 12:1-2—transformation comes through renewed minds, not conformity to culture. • James 4:7-8—submission to God and resistance to the devil keep life on course. |
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