But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. (Jude 17)


BACK IN THE 1970s, two sayings became popular: “If it feels good, do it” and “Love God, then do what you please.” The first seemed utterly selfish and did not tempt me, but I was deceived by the second. If we loved God perfectly, wouldn’t we want to do His will? Won’t God honor whatever we do if the motive is love? No, not if it is in disobedience to His Word. None of us is perfect in our love for God or has perfect motives. Although I thought I was doing right, this thinking led me from the path of righteousness into despair.

Jesus didn’t abolish the Ten Commandments; He redefined them in a deeper way and fulfilled them. We are saved by grace and we show our faith and gratitude by living in obedience to the guidelines God has shown us in His Word. The apostles foretold that deceivers would trick believers with false teaching. The apostles also taught us how to lead holy lives.

After repentance, I soaked myself thoroughly in the Word of God. This study convinced me that God really does love me and cares about my happiness. Also, it made me more aware of the mercy, majesty, omnipotence, and omniscience of God. Obeying Him has become much more important than doing what feels right to me.

Read one of the Epistles and list the instructions you find there.

Judith Vander Wege is a member of the worship committee, choir, and praise team at her church and plays the accordion for senior citizens.