April 26

God's Grace

The One Step to Knowing Christ

“Those who obey his commands live in him, and he in them.”
1 John 3:24a (NIV)

“How do we come to know Christ better?” I asked a new Christian. Answering
humbly, the young African said, “By doing what Jesus tells us to
do.” Surprised, I was reminded that day of the very important foundation
of the Christian life.

Obeying Jesus Christ is the very basis of life. Simply put, when we
obey Christ, we live in Him. When we live in Him, we will know the
very mind of God.

If we become centered on laws, rules and regulations rather than
just simple obedience of Christ’s words, then the particulars of the
Christian life turn into a source of stress, worry and argument. Spiritual-
improvement books or plans, instead of Christ, are sought after to
clear up the problems. Over time, we tend to lose sight of that which
brings us truly in step with Christ.

Jesus has come to give us life. The young African believer may not
have known the commands of the Bible at this point in his life, but he
knew from where his life came. He also knew that obedience was the
key to gaining knowledge of the Savior, who gave him new life.
Knowing Christ doesn’t come from a five-step plan, a self-help
book or a list of rules. It is gloriously found in following our Savior and
obeying His words.

Nothing more needed to be said to the young, new Christian at
the moment. I sat back and smiled in affirmation, realizing the simple
truth that had just been spoken.

—Daniel, Central, Eastern and Southern Africa

Father, may I live simply by obeying Your commands so that I can follow the
example of Jesus. You have ordained Your precepts, that we should keep them
diligently. I know that I can keep my way pure by keeping to Your Word. I pray
that missionaries will obey You and not stray from Your Word. Amen.



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