It is easy to find people who say they love God. What is much more difficult is finding people who actually do. One’s love for God is manifested by their attitude toward His commandments and sin.
John wrote, "For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome" (1 Jn. 5:3). What separates true lovers of God from mere pretenders? Obedience. Those who do His will are they that really love Him.
Love is not only demonstrated in observing what is good and right, but it is also shown in a hatred for evil. Long ago the Psalmist wrote, "You who love the LORD, hate evil!..." (Psa. 97:10). Later he stated, "Therefore I love Your commandments More than gold, yes, than fine gold! Therefore all Your precepts concerning all things I consider to be right; I hate every false way" (Psa. 119:127-128).
If we do not keep the commandments of the Lord and at the same time despise and abhor wickedness, we have not a love of God. Do you love God? Have you obeyed the gospel (Rom. 1:16; 2 Thes. 1:8)? Are you putting the kingdom first (Mt. 6:33)? Are you being faithful (Rev. 2:10)? Do you flirt with sin? Do you condone its practice in the lives of your family or friends? - - Learn to love God!
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