Duh. I finally have seen the obvious. All, as in A-L-L, my writing is talking about relationships. Especially our relationship with the Lord. In some way on some level my primary writing context is always our relationship with the Lord. I realized this and began writing about it again. But… what could possibly be more important? Without a relationship and an understanding of what this is, and since it influences every aspect of our lives – what could be more important?
If you are a Christian then through your acceptance of Jesus as your Lord, you began your relationship with Him. Relationship is not static. Look at your other relationships. They either grew over time or they just kind of lessened to more of an acquaintanceship. Is ‘acquaintanceship’ how you want to define and describe your relationship with the Lord? I hope not. Because if you keep Him ‘out there’ then He is limited by your decision of operating fully in your life.
Amazingly, in John in His last instructions/teaching to His disciples, He called them ‘friends’.
“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling your servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father.” (John 15:15, MSG)
I’ve purposely highlighted that one sentence because it speaks volumes! I also believe that this designation is also available for us. The Lord wouldn’t tempt us with something that we could never attain or receive and being the Lord’s friend is an incredible gift. What do we do to attain ‘friend’? We do the things He has commanded. Have you looked into everything commanded by the Lord?
There is a wonderful synopsis provided at: https://iblp.org/questions/what-are-commands-christ that lists 49 commands by Jesus. This site provides everything we need to know. Some of the commands don’t seem like commands, such as: Rejoice – Matthew 5:11-12; Receive God’s Power – Luke 24:49; Hear God’s Voice – Matthew 11:15. Then there are the obvious ones: Follow Me – Matthew 4:19 and what I consider to be the foundation: Matthew 22:36-40, AMP
“‘Love the Lord your God with all you heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments,”
I know I’ve written about relationships before but, for me, mine is always growing and I’m discovering more about myself, about who I can become, about the Lord, and all things related to life and living. You can have as much or as little as you choose. Just don’t choose… just a little. Please, never forget…
“Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments,”
(John 14:15, KJV)
