Word for the day "Obedience motivated by love"

^{John 3:19 (NIIV)} This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. ²⁰ Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. ²¹ But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.God loves people more than He loves their comfort. The Lord invests a great deal into mankind. God desires relationship with us and will go to great lengths to create such a relationship in order for us to receive the rewards and inheritance in store for us.I have observed this process in the scriptures in working on myself and with people in ministry. Often we live based on convenience. Our obedience is largely based on circumstances in our lives. We choose to obey based on the circumstances.Most of us are motivated to obey God in order to get out of the pain of our situation. Many times God allows us to stay in this condition in order to demonstrate His love and faithfulness during our pain. Gradually, we discover something new about God and often have a personal encounter with the Lord that changes us. Our very nature is affected by this God-encounter.Point to ponder- Obedience will not last when the motivation is only the removal of our pain. Obedience only lasts when the motivation is loving desire for the Lord. Where are you in your obedience and what is the primary motivation? If it isn't love, why not tell the Lord you love Him today and want to know Him for who He is and not for what He can do for you.Our Leadership team is especially thankful for those of you who provided financial donations and support in the month of February 2017 by partnering with us in efforts to advance the kingdom of God in this 21st century season: Special thanks to Mr. William Wilson, Mr. David Strayker, and Ms. Gertrude Scott. Why don't you take the opportunity to write us on our blog and let us know how we are doing in serving you Great people, we'd love to hear from you!Follow me on Twitter @Elder James Baker, as I endeavor to encourage and empower leaders of today and tomorrow!Kingdom Blessings,Pastor James Baker, Jr.Thank you for using the Word Cup devotionals brought to you through Grace and Truth Leadership on (Word press). We are a faith-based, donor-supported ministry. If you have been touched by these daily devotionals, and would like to make a monthly pledge or a special gift of any amount, please use the link below to give as the Lord leads. Thank you so much!http://www.graceandtruthleadership.org/#!donate/vv9e2