LOVE IS HIGHER

I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. Matthew 11:28–30 (MSG)

I love how the Message Bible puts today’s verse. The “unforced rhythms of grace” Jesus refers to speak of God’s unearned favour and help, but they also speak of the relationship every believer has with Him.

You see, each relationship has its own unforced rhythm. None of us can predict exactly how our relationship with our spouse or friends will develop. There are natural discoveries you make as you do life with them. You have to discover how each relationship works yourself, and you can’t force it. It’s about continually learning how to love each other.

This discovery is what builds a strong relationship—not a list of rules. Be careful to not get law and love mixed up. Love is higher than law. For example, the fear of legal consequences isn’t what prevents the average mother from hurting her baby. Unless she suffers from some sort of mental illness, she doesn’t want to hurt him because she loves him.

The same is true of your relationship with God. Don’t try to follow His ways out of obligation or fear of punishment. Let love be your motivator. This is why the first and greatest commandment is to love your Lord your God with all your heart. If you love Him, every other commandment is easy to obey because of that love.

Think about the unforced rhythms of your relationship with God. Although there are similarities in how we get to know God, your relationship with Him is unique to you. You need to discover how you sense God’s love and how you show your love for Him. Tune in to that love today.