John 14:23 – “Jesus replied, ‘Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.”
Recently while visiting family in East Texas, I went on a walk in a neighborhood close to our hotel. As I was admiring the towering piney woods, beautifully manicured lawns, and enjoying the bright sunshine, I thought that “This is a street I want to live on”. Despite the allure of the setting, due to commitments within our own town, my husband and I will probably not be pulling up stakes anytime soon. However, the pleasure I was experiencing during that neighborhood stroll is something any of us can experience regardless of our street address.
It all has to do with whom we have invited into our homes and hearts. Today’s scripture promises that all who love Jesus and obey His teachings can experience closeness with the LORD. Thus, our homes and our lives can be pleasant whether our current circumstances are perilous or peaceful.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for Your desire to be in relationship with us. Help us remember it is your presence and not our circumstances that allows us to live our lives in peaceful and pleasant ways. In the Strong Name of Jesus, Amen.
- Phyliss Hooten
