And we receive from Him whatever we ask, because we [watchfully] obey His orders [observe His suggestions and injunctions, follow His plan for us] and [habitually] practice what is pleasing to Him.
1 John 3:22 AMPC
Even though the bible tells us that God is near to all who call upon Him, it is important to note the emphasis at the end of that verse: “…all who call upon Him sincerely and in truth” (Psalm 145:18). No one who lives in falsehood should expect that his life or words would draw him any closer to God. On the contrary, he would only be going farther from Him, since He cannot behold even the slightest sin.
This is the life-giving message we heard him share and it’s still ringing in our ears. We now repeat his words to you: God is pure light. You will never find even a trace of darkness in him. If we claim that we share life with him, but keep walking in the realm of darkness, we’re fooling ourselves and not living the truth.
1 John 1:5-6 TPT
Therefore, it is important for us to realize that we must carefully and consistently obey God’s instructions. Follow His plans for our lives and habitually live the kind of life that is pleasing unto Him, if our voice would not be detestable and forbidden unto Him. Since disobedience is sin, we cannot continue to live in sin and expect God to give attention to our words. We cannot continue in sin and expect grace to multiply.
But they refused to pay attention; stubbornly they turned their backs and covered their ears. They made their hearts as hard as flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the Lord Almighty had sent by his Spirit through the earlier prophets. So, the Lord Almighty was very angry. When I called, they did not listen; so, when they called, I would not listen,’ says the Lord Almighty.
Zechariah 7:11-13 NIV
If anyone turns a deaf ear to my instruction, even their prayers are detestable.
Proverbs 28:9 NIV
Obedience to God’s instruction is inevitable, if we would enjoy the abundant blessings available in being near to Him. It’s important to note that God expects habitual and consistent obedience from us, not just occasional obedience. Our obedience should prioritize pleasing God, even when it’s difficult, rather than our own comfort and desires.
We must also be mindful that our actions are a reflection of our faith. It’s not enough to say we believe in God; our lives must reflect the transformation that occurs when we truly surrender to Him.
We know that God does not listen to sinners; but if anyone is God-fearing and a worshiper of Him and does His will, He listens to him.
John 9:31 AMPC
1 John 3:22 reminds us that living in obedience to God and practicing what pleases Him is the key to receiving what we ask for and living a life that honors Him. Let’s seek God’s will above our own and trust Him to guide us towards His perfect plan for our lives.
Prayer: Help me to obey your instructions, Lord. Help me to live a life that is pleasing to you.
