TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

The Christian life should be motivated by love for Christ, not by fear or external pressure. True obedience comes from a heart filled with love for God. If fear is what drives our obedience, it turns into a form of bondage. As Christians, we are called to live in the spirit of adoption, where we call God our Father, and love for Him leads us to obey His commands.

Sadly, many believers are motivated more by fear of punishment than by love. This is not the way we are meant to live. Our actions should flow from a deep, inner love for Christ. This kind of love makes obedience a joyful and natural response, not something forced or burdensome.

Religion that comes from external factors—customs, expectations, or fear—leads to a shallow faith. But when we are driven by love of God, we will love others, our faith becomes deep and genuine. God sees the heart, not just outward actions, and He desires that our devotion to Him comes from within.

Jesus said in John 14:15 (NIV), “If you love me, keep my commands.” This simple verse shows that true Christian obedience comes from love. When we love Christ, we naturally want to follow His ways.