Obedience to the Word is the hallmark of a true believer. The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes (Ps. 19:8). It isnt popular these days to speak of Gods Word as a book of commandments. Commands imply law and were accustomed to grace. But the fact is, both the Old and New Testaments contain many commandments that all Gods people are to obey. The apostle John said, By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. The one who says, I have come to know Him, and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected (1 John 2:3-5). John equated the commandments of God with the Word of God. Jesus Himself said, If you love Me, you will keep My commandments (John 14:15) and He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father (v. 21). If you truly love Christ, your life will be characterized by a pattern of obedience to His Word. Every commandment of God is pure, the psalmist said (Ps. 19:8). Its effect is enlightening the eyes. Gods Word brings spiritual truth into clear focus. Not every passage of Scripture is easy to understand, but taken as a whole, the message of the Bible is clear to the regenerate mind. But as clear as the Bible is to believers, unredeemed people cant understand it. To them its foolishness because their minds are unenlightened (1 Cor. 2:14). In their spiritual blindness they choose humanistic philosophical speculations over Gods Word. But as a believer, you are continually being enlightened by the truths of Gods Word as the Holy Spirit enables you to understand and apply them to your life. Your ability to understand the Word is a priceless gift. Take advantage of it daily by expanding your Bible knowledge and increasing your obedience. Suggestions for Prayer Thank the Lord for opening your mind to the truths of His Word. Commit yourself to discovering at least one additional truth from Scripture each day. For Further Study Read 1 Corinthians 2:14-16. What comparison did Paul make between the natural (unregenerate) man and the spiritual (regenerate) man? From Drawing Near by John MacArthur Copyright © 1993. Used by permission of Crossway Books, a division of Good News Publishers, Wheaton, IL 60187, crossway.
Posted on: Tue, 21 Oct 2014 09:36:35 +0000