The Narrow Way

John 1:6 calls us back to the foundational principle of Christian living – walking in love as an expression of obedience to God’s commandments.

This scripture challenges us to align our actions with the timeless directive of love, a directive that encapsulates the essence of God’s will for us.

Context:

2 John is a brief letter emphasizing truth and love within the Christian community. The Apostle John reiterates the critical importance of love as both a commandment and a guiding principle for life. In this context, he succinctly connects the act of loving with the act of obedience to God’s commands.

2 John 1:6:

“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.”

This verse defines love not just as an emotion or sentiment but as a commitment to living according to God’s commandments.

Application to Our Daily Lives:

1. Understanding Love as Obedience: We understand that true love is expressed through obedience to God’s commandments. Our love for God is demonstrated in how faithfully we live out His instructions.

2. Reflecting on the Commandments: We take time to reflect on God’s commandments, seeking to understand them more deeply and how they apply to our lives. We recognize these commandments as expressions of God’s love and wisdom.

3. Prioritizing Love in Our Actions: We prioritize love in our actions towards others. This means treating people with kindness, respect, and compassion, in alignment with the teachings of Christ.

4. Embracing a Lifestyle of Love: We embrace a lifestyle where love is a guiding principle in all we do. This involves making daily choices that reflect our commitment to God’s commandments.

5. Teaching Love as Obedience: In our families and faith communities, we teach that love is expressed through obedience to God. We encourage each other to live lives that are in harmony with God’s Word.

6. Being Examples of God’s Love: We strive to be examples of God’s love in the world. Our behavior and attitudes should reflect the love and holiness that come from walking in obedience to God.

7. Balancing Truth and Love: We seek to balance truth and love in our interactions, understanding that God’s commandments are rooted in both. We stand firm in the truth while expressing it in love.

Conclusion:

2 John 1:6 invites us to understand and embrace the profound connection between love and obedience to God’s commandments.

As we walk in this love, our lives become a testament to the transformative power of living according to God’s will.

Let this understanding of love challenge and inspire us to live each day in alignment with His commandments, thereby demonstrating the true nature of love – a love that is active, obedient, and reflective of God’s own heart.