“Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me?” (John 14:9).
These words of Jesus to Philip were not spoken with reproach, nor with surprise, but as loving guidance. The disciples knew Jesus in part, as the One who gave them power over demons and who sparked revivals, but they still did not know Him intimately.
All the discipline of life has a purpose: to enable us to have an intimate relationship with God the Father and with Jesus Christ. But this intimacy is not granted randomly; it comes from faithfulness to divine instructions. Those who do not follow God’s commandments cannot be intimate with Him, because true fellowship with the Creator requires submission and obedience. To obey is the ultimate proof that we truly know God and that we love Him.
Whoever decides, once and for all, to obey the Lord without reservations becomes close to Him, an intimate friend. And this friendship brings with it all the privileges of faithfulness: immeasurable blessings, constant protection, and, most importantly, salvation. God does not hide His heart from those who sincerely seek Him. He reveals Himself to those who obey Him, and these walk in His presence, experiencing an unparalleled communion with the Father and the Son. It is not enough to know about God; it is necessary to live in obedience to truly know Him. -Adapted from O. Chambers. See you tomorrow, if the Lord allows us.
Pray with me: Dear God, it is true that it is not enough just to know about You; it is necessary to live in obedience to truly know You. I want more than just to know Your deeds; I desire to truly know You, to walk with You, and to experience Your presence in my life.
My Father, today I ask You to teach me to be faithful to Your instructions, for I know that true intimacy with You comes from obedience. I do not want to merely admire Your works, but to live according to Your will, tasting the joy of being close to You. Give me a heart willing to follow Your commandments without reservations, for I know that obedience is the ultimate proof of true love.
Oh, Most Holy God, I worship and praise You because You do not hide Your heart from those who sincerely seek You. Thank You for revealing Yourself to those who choose to obey You and for allowing those who walk with You to enjoy a deep and transforming communion. May my life be marked by this faithfulness, so that I may know You more each day and experience Your presence and Your blessings. Your beloved Son is my eternal Prince and Savior. Your powerful Law accompanies me at all times and has been a faithful friend. Your commandments are like the safe path that guides my steps through life’s uncertainties. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, amen.
