In what ways can we apply Jesus' commands in our relationships today? Friendship Rooted in Obedience “You are My friends if you do what I command you.” (John 15:14) • Jesus links friendship with Him to active obedience. • In every human relationship—marriage, family, friendships, church—our first relational priority is to honor His commands. Obeying Him shapes how we treat one another. Love That Mirrors His Own “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” (John 15:12) • Self-sacrificing love is the standard. • We look at how He served, forgave, and laid down His life, then imitate that pattern. Practical Ways to Live It Out 1. Initiate Acts of Service • Look for tangible needs and meet them (Galatians 5:13). • Serve without waiting to be asked or thanked. 2. Speak Truth in Grace • “Let each of you speak truthfully to his neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25). • Correct gently, encourage generously, refuse gossip. 3. Forgive Quickly and Fully • “Forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). • Release offenses; keep no record of wrongs (1 Corinthians 13:5). 4. Practice Humble Preference • “Do nothing out of selfish ambition…but in humility consider others more important than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). • Yield personal rights for another’s good. 5. Demonstrate Consistent Loyalty • “A friend loves at all times” (Proverbs 17:17). • Stand with brothers and sisters through trials; keep confidences. 6. Encourage Spiritual Growth • “Spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). • Pray together, share Scripture, celebrate obedience. Everyday Relationship Checklist ☑ Did I actively look for ways to serve today? ☑ Were my words honest, kind, and edifying? ☑ Have I released grudges and offered forgiveness? ☑ Did I value others above myself in decisions and conversations? ☑ Am I helping others follow Jesus more closely? Strength for the Journey • Abiding in Christ (John 15:5) empowers obedience; we cannot produce this love on our own. • The Holy Spirit pours God’s love into our hearts (Romans 5:5), enabling us to keep Jesus’ commands in every relationship. Resulting Testimony “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35) When His commands shape our relationships, the world sees genuine friendship with Jesus on display. |
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