Living In The Light

January 28, The Test Of Love

“He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word
which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me.”
—John 14:24 LL 34.1

Our estimate of the value of salvation is being tested. The precious jewels of truth are being presented to us. But many listen with weariness to the presentation of the most precious and important truths. Their countenances do not glow with animation. They are listless and uninterested. Who would believe that such realized that by their life practice they were deciding their eternal destiny? They should be wide-awake, earnestly seeking for the kingdom of God and His righteousness. But do they look like people to whom a priceless gem is being presented? . . . LL 34.2

The test is plainly defined: “He that loveth Me not, keepeth not My sayings; and the word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father’s which sent Me.” “If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love, even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” LL 34.3

In the Sermon on the mount, our Lord compared the truth to pearls, and He warned His disciples to beware how they threw away truth of the highest value on those who would not appreciate it. “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs,” He said, “neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.” LL 34.4

Satan’s power is wholly destructive; God’s power is constructive. The kingdom of God is a kingdom of continual progress. If we follow on to know the Lord, we shall know that “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” It is like the sun, which in the morning sheds its mild beams in the east, and keeps on increasing in strength until it reaches the perfect day. How much need, then, is there for us to keep a sharp watch unto prayer, and be earnest and zealous in our efforts to secure the great salvation! When this is held up before us, we should be intensely anxious to secure it, lest we lose the opportunity offered us. LL 34.5

The world estimates a man by the amount of money he has, by the value of his residence and its furniture, or by the number of acres in his estate. Christ places a different estimate upon His people. He calls those who obey His commandments His jewels.— Signs of the Times , November 24, 1898. LL 34.6

Further Reflection: Is your love for Jesus reflected in obedience to His commands? LL 34.7