As Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, he shared his heart. He predicted his betrayal and Peter’s denial. He encouraged the disciples to avoid fear. He promised revelation and companionship. He explained that they will eventually realize “that I am in my Father, and you are in me” (John 14:10.)

Jesus explained these things in advance to the disciples so they would believe when these predictions came to pass. Jesus further said the world “must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me” (John 14:30).

There are some roads in life that we would rather not walk down — loss, sickness, pain, and many others. Jesus’ life taught his followers how to walk down difficult roads. Jesus’ love and obedience to the Father was his top priority — not circumstances or any personal sacrifice. Jesus trusted his Father and committed himself wholeheartedly to obey him.

Earlier, in John chapter 14, Jesus explained that obeying is a sign of love. “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love me will not obey my teaching” (John 14:23). Jesus expressed his love for his Father by trusting in his loving commands and obeying them exactly. We can express our love for Jesus and our Father by doing likewise.

Father God, I love you and trust your commands and instructions to me. Give me an undivided heart to love and obey you. May I not withhold my obedience and trust when you ask me to experience difficulty, loss, sickness, or pain. May I not compromise but entrust myself to you all the more. Amen.

Go Deeper — Ponder the intimacy level you are experiencing with our Father. Ask the Lord to search your heart and reveal anything you are withholding from him or anything he wants to bring into alignment with his will.



Tags: Trust & Obey John 14
Photo Credit: Sam Manns