1 Kings 3:3 NIV*

“3Solomon showed his love for the LORD by walking according to the instructions given him by his father David, except that he offered sacrifices and burned incense on the high places.”

As I was reading my Bible this morning, God made this verse jump off the page at me. I remembered the words that Jesus said: “‘If you love me, keep my commands.” (John 14:15 NIV)*

There are many that believe religion is all about rules. There are also those that believe salvation is attained through works. However, neither of these are correct. Salvation is attained through Christ alone. We must humble ourselves, ask for forgiveness, and ask Him to come live in our hearts. That is how salvation is attained. In regard to rule following, rule following will come as a natural consequence to loving God and growing in relationship with Him.

Do you love God? Are you obeying Him? If we love Him, then we will want to obey Him. If we love Him, then we will act on that desire. Do not think that because we sin, that we do not love God. We are humans, and we will make mistakes. However, we show that we love God by doing our best to obey His commands. When we mess up, we must go to Him, ask for forgiveness, and turn from our sin. Please note: just because we are human and will make mistakes, do not use that as an excuse to sin.

 

Dear God,

I pray that You help me to love You more than anything in this world. Help me to obey You. When I sin, help me to run to You. Give me the strength to do the hard things. Fill me with Your Spirit.

                                                                                                                                                 In Your Name I pray, amen.

 

*The Daily Walk Bible. Edited by John W. Hoover, Paula A. Kirk, and Chris Tiegreen. New
           International Version. Walk Thru the Bible Ministries, Inc. Atlanta, GA. 2013. Print.