He says, we say

Love the Lord your God . . . obey His voice.                — Deuteronomy 30:20

As my wife reviewed her day, she told me about an incident that took place with our granddaughter Eliana, who was visiting. Eliana had been playing with some toys, so when she wanted to go to another part of the house, Grandma told her, “Eliana, you need to put your toys away first.” Without missing a beat, Eliana replied, “I don’t have time.”

She was just 2 years old at the time, so she was definitely not running on a packed schedule!

I wonder sometimes if God might be a bit surprised with us when He hears our responses to His commands.

For instance, when Jesus says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden” (Matt. 11:28), and we say, “I can’t go on. I have too many troubles and problems.” I wonder what He thinks. When He says, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10), and we say, “I can’t fit You into my schedule.” I wonder what He thinks. When He says, “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16), and we say, “But the world looks like so much fun.” I wonder what He thinks.

God has spoken. Obedience is the best way to honor Him for what He has done for us and to show Him how much we love Him. — Dave Branon

Master, speak, and make me ready,

When thy voice is truly heard,

With obedience glad and steady,

Still to follow every word.

— Havergal

READ: James 1:21-27

Our desire to please God is our

highest motive for obeying God.