Verse: 2 John 1:4-6
4 I rejoiced greatly to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as we were commanded by the Father. 5 And now I ask you, dear lady—not as though I were writing you a new commandment, but the one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another.6 And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments; this is the commandment, just as you have heard from the beginning, so that you should walk in it.

Devotion:
In these verses, the apostle John expresses his joy, hearing that some believers are walking in the truth and living according to God’s commandments. There’s a few key points John draws our attention to:

1. Walking in the Truth: John’s joy stems from seeing fellow believers living in step with the truth of God’s Word. It serves as a reminder that the way we live our lives should be in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ. The reflection for us here is on how we strive to walk in truth, how our lives are a reflection that honors God.

2. Commandment of Love: John emphasizes the importance of loving one another. This commandment is not new but has been given to us from the beginning. Love is the foundation of Christian living, and it is through our love for one another that we demonstrate our faith in God. The reflection for us here is how we intentionally look for opportunities to love others. What opportunities so we take to be selfless and love as Christ loves us?

3. Walking in Obedience: John connects love with obedience to God’s commandments. True love is not just a feeling, despite what culture may tell us. Rather, it is demonstrated through our actions and obedience to God’s Word. As we walk in love and obedience, we reflect to the broken world around us the transformative power of God’s love in our lives.

As you read and reflect this morning, spend some time just thinking about how obedience and love work hand in hand. I know I don’t always connect the two together. There’s an opportunity for growth in taking an honest look at how my obedience to the Lord impacts my ability to love His people.

Prayer:
Lord, may these words wash over us today and lead us to deeper reflection about our relationship with you. Help these words to inspire us to walk in the truth, love one another, and obediently follow your commandments. Guide our steps and help us to be living testimonies of your love and grace in the world. Thank you Lord for these sweet reminders. Amen

Author: Becca Artymenko