We are called to love God with our whole heart, mind, soul and strength. But how do you do this? What does an active loving of God look like in our lives? Ultimately, we love God through holy obedience. We must obey His Divine Will above all else. Perhaps that seems like a strange concept, that love of God is best expressed in holy obedience. But it is. It’s expressed in holy obedience because of one simple fact: The Will of God is perfect, perfect for us, exactly what we need, it’s what we were made for, and we must enter into perfect submission to His Will. In the end, the only way we will understand this form and depth of love is by living it (See Diary #616).
Everything I’ve done in the name of Jesus has been done by simple fiat. I can do nothing on my own, but when Jesus asks me to do anything, I know it isn’t me that is acting, it is Him. And through Jesus I can do all things through Him Who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). And for that reason, not only do I do these things, I try to be the first to help, in any task, because I have experienced how much my yes pleases God (see Diary #65). I strive to remember that I do all things for God, for it is God for Whom I work, not man (Colossians 3:23).
So when the summons comes from God, I pray I always find courage to say yes. Because, I know He asks me to do nothing that I can’t do with His power. And I know that everything I do in the Name of Jesus Christ, I do to His glory (Colossians 3:17). But more so, I know that He has planned everything like the sheet music of a great symphony and all of His plans are for my good (Romans 8:28).
Holy obedience can be a difficult virtue to embrace and live wholeheartedly. It can be difficult to accept and to embrace as good because some things He’s called me to are scary and look HUGE and impossible. But, I want always to be striving to obey God in all things. I have learned that when I surrender to His Will and just say yes, I find great joy in loving God in this perfect way.
Lord, I want to obey You in all things. I thank You that Your law is perfect and, when embraced, completely refreshes my soul. Help me to always love You in this holy way so as to make Your Will my own. In this act, I imitate Your perfect obedience to the Will of the Father. Jesus, I trust in You.
I am Your instrument, Jesus, play Your song through me. Father God, You are the orchestra master of my life, I will follow Your lead and guidance.
We must trust in the Lord. Many times I do not ask where He wants me to go and what He wants me to do. Too often I act without asking for His guidance.