1 John 3:22- and receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him.
As a young child, do you recall wanting that latest toy you saw on the television. You were excited because it was coming to a store near you very soon? Whether it was the latest Barbie or Ken doll, you did all that was required to have that toy in your possession on the day it was available for purchase. Most of the time getting this toy was tied with getting all your chores done, doing your homework, obeying your parents, teachers or those who raised you. You obeyed the rules and did what pleased your parents to get what you wanted.
Today's verse is a reminder that the same with the requirements of your parent, God requires us to obey and follow his commandments. Keeping his commands and doing what pleases him assures us that we will receive all that we ask according to his will. We all disobey God's command at one point or the other and then forget this when we ask for something. However, we serve a faithful and merciful God. He works with us and helps us be obedient to his commands and guide us to do the things that pleases him. He wants to give us everything we ask of him.
1 John 3:1 reminds us, "see what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him." (Read 1 John 3). Yes, you are God's child and he wants to give you everything you ask. I encourage you to seek to please God and keep his commands. Be confidently connected to God and his word and he will guide you to keeping his commands and be abundantly rewarded according to his will.
Dear God,
Thank you for the reminder that keeping your commands and that doing what pleases you is important. There is a reward for doing so whether it is received right away or later. I pray that all your children confidently connect with you, keep your commands and do what pleases you. I ask this all in Jesus' name. Amen!
Ilka V. Chavez