We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. (1 John 2:3)
Children in our neighborhood kids’ club have really enjoyed learning the Ten Commandments—complete with hand motions—as part of a Bible quizzing competition we organized for them. And while they clearly enjoyed talking about them, even agreeing how important they are, we did notice that some of the commandments seemed less popular than others.
Many of the commandments seemed easy to the children, and they were happy to point out all the ones that they were already pretty good at obeying. After explaining what “not coveting” meant, though, we saw disappointment in the children’s faces as they listened. In a culture where coveting seems to have become the norm, not coveting seemed a challenge to these kids.
But if we’re honest, isn’t it a challenge for all of us? How often do we smile when we hear the Ten Commandments that we easily observe and overlook those that seem more difficult for us? Yet, today’s passage points out that keeping all God’s commands shows that we truly know him. The commandments are not restrictive but rather an invitation to rid ourselves of that which often gets in the way of our love for God. God knows what is best for us, though, and wants us to obey him even when it is difficult or unpopular, because he wants us to know him in return.
—Caryl Aukerman
Consider where obedience is hard and ask God to soften your heart.
