Do You Love Enough To Obey?: Daily Devotional for 18th July, 2025

Maria spent every Saturday at the local shelter, where she felt a joy that seemed to light up her entire week. Each morning, she would arrive with baskets filled with homemade sandwiches, warm blankets, and a heart full of love. She would roll up her sleeves and dive into the work, serving meals, organizing donations, and even lending an ear to those who just needed someone to talk to. Many of the people at the shelter relied on her kindness, and her warm smile always greeted them. Maria’s passion for helping others gave her purpose, teaching her that obedience to love and serve was her calling. Maria served day after day and began to realize that this was not just a task; it was a demonstration of her love. Each time she chose to go to the shelter instead of lounging at home, she was obeying a deeper command written on her heart. Loving others often means stepping out of our comfort zones and making sacrifices. Maria discovered that her obedience—showing up and caring for those in need—was a reflection of her love for God and her community. She not only fulfilled the call to help others but also nurtured her own spirit. This simple commitment to love through action opened a door to a higher meaning, reminding all of us that true love is often expressed through our willingness to obey the call to serve those around us.

One sunny Saturday, Maria arrived at the shelter, ready to serve her usual duties of preparing meals and organizing donations. A sign on the wall caught her eye as she walked through the doors: “Do you love enough to obey?”” The words stirred something inside her, reminding her of Matthew 16:24-26, where Jesus talks about denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and following Him. Maria knew she loved to help others, but that day, she felt a challenge to reflect on her love for God and how it translated into her actions. Maria felt a heartwarming connection with the family in need as she served them a hot meal. But then a thought crossed her mind: Was she giving her best, or was she just doing what she felt comfortable with? Jesus asks us to deny ourselves and follow Him, which means sometimes stepping out of our comfort zones. Maria sensed that love is more than just a feeling; it’s about obedience to His call. If she truly loved God and wanted to follow Him, she needed to examine how far her love extended. Did it compel her to sacrifice more time or resources? Maria decided to lead a weekly Bible study at the shelter as she cleaned up after the last meal. It would not only allow her to serve, but also to share the good news and the hope she found in Christ. That day, Maria learned that love isn’t simply a kind act—it’s an active choice to obey and follow where God leads us, echoing the words of Jesus in Matthew. The more she loved Him, the more she would be willing to obey His call to serve and inspire others in His name.