Hearing His Voice #336

Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.”

John 14:23

FROM THE HEART OF GOD

“How would you feel if you had a friend who listened to your advice but never really acted on it? How would you feel if your most heartfelt words were neglected or casually dismissed? Would you take it personally? Most people would, and understandably so. Your thoughts and feelings are expressed in words, and when your words are ignored, it hurts. They represent who you are. And when someone takes them seriously enough to act on them, you feel valued.

“Many people say they love Me but don’t demonstrate that they value Me by doing what I say. It’s possible to do what I say without loving Me, but it isn’t possible to love Me without doing what I say. Those who disregard My words don’t really value them or understand My heart. Those who want to know Me and love who I am will also embrace wholeheartedly what I say. Your response to My words is a revealing picture of what you think and how you feel about Me.

“My heart warms when you embrace My words. The Father and I love you at all times, regardless of how you respond to us, but our love for you swells with joy when you honor us, want to become like us, and are eager to do what we say. I have drawn you into a relationship not only so you can know My love but also so I can know yours. The substance of My instructions is important—I want you to do what I said—but it is much less important than the love your response reveals. I’m much more interested in your heart than your obedience. But show Me your heart by what you do.”

Jesus, forgive me for assuming I can love You in attitude without loving You in action. I love this promise—that You and the Father will come and make Your home with me. Please do so. I want You to feel at home in my heart.