The Beautiful Yield
Jesus said,
This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you… You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever You ask of the Father in My name He may give to you.
John 15:12-14,16 NASB
Love and unselfishly seek the best for one another. All should give, and all should receive the Jesus kind of love.
Laying down life is the greatest love and strongest commitment.
Consistent obedience is the proof we love God. Let’s remember that. We do not praise, dance, fast, nor pray around our obedience. Obedience is not a law or bondage to anyone who lives in love with the Lord Jesus. And contrary to some opinions, this love overflows in horizontal relationships of all kinds.
There is a lady who for the last several years makes it a point to call and encourage me. This last call, she referenced the prayer meeting for kidneys that is coming up, and she said something that I hardly think about.
Prophet, I know there’s a price you pay. Thank you for paying the price for us. (paraphrase)
Jesus chose us to yield lasting fruit for Him, so that when we petition God as His representatives, God gives us what we request. WOW….sacrificial love, obedience, and bearing fruit that remains is the set up for answered prayer.
I get into a rhythm of obedience and feel the effects of laying down my life, but I rarely stop to think about what the Lord requires of me in service and in life restrictions.
Beloved, this is a good day to be grateful, to thank the Lord for giving us a pattern of love to follow. Anything we call love that does not mutually seek the best for another is not love. It is taking over giving. It is selfishness and entitlement. It is misplaced expectations.
Eventually, we arrive at the point of resignation where the Lord parts our ways and allows our sacrifice to be offered on altars where His fire can fall and consume it. Be encouraged Royal Ones. This cutting is for His glory, and the yield will be LOVELY.
I love you…sincerely. Selah.
Blogs I Follow
The Bereans' Commentary with Shaunta D. Scroggins, Ed.D. 