“If you love Me, keep My commandments.” John 14:15
Dear Ones:
The word “if” is a mighty big, little word. It is small in that it only has two letters, and often passes unperceived in a sentence or conversation. However, its significance is enormous, both with respect to what it means, and especially because of the ONE who uses it often. With regard to its meaning, it expresses the thoughts of that which is conditional, and that which is a certain reality. In its use, the Lord Jesus brings us to a choice, a decision, a crossroads, whether monumental or very small. For example, He says, “IF you love Me…” In using the word He puts us directly before a monumental issue, that of truly loving Christ. The proof of that love is devotion, a knowing of the word of Christ, and a commitment to submit to it. The word “if” reveals where we are in our love for Him.
When the Lord Jesus uses the word “if” concerning Himself, there are GREAT truths and realities that accompany it. Those truths have a massive, and profound bearing on us, pertaining to this life of faith on this earth. For example, after telling the disciples that “…where I go, you cannot follow me now.” (Jn. 13:36), they were troubled, and saddened. It is at this point that Christ calls them to faith in Him, telling them to not be troubled, for “…in My Father’s house are many mansions.” (14:2) He then says, “IF it were not so, I would have told you.” The point is this. Christ puts before the disciples a point of choice, to believe Him for that which is eternal which they cannot see as yet, or to fall prey to not believing Him to ALWAYS work in this life for their highest good, and God’s greatest glory. Would Christ lie to them? Would He seek to comfort them with a lie? No. He would tell them the truth. The choice to believe Him resides in their response to the word, “IF.”
Another example of the importance of the word “if” is found in the same chapter of John’s gospel, in Jesus’ words. “IF” you shall ask anything in My name, I will do it.” (v.14) Here this little word “IF,” is like a hinge upon which a monumental truth and reality hangs. It not only declares truths concerning our responsibility, but the certainty of God’s response to obedience and faith. It becomes a clarion call to obey the truth, so as to SEE the glory of God. According to God, what will occur when we pray, and pray in a certain way? The Lord Jesus says: “I WILL DO IT.” Paul writes reiterates this same commitment by God: “Faithful is He who calls you, who also WILL DO IT.” We find the same concept in David’s words in Psalm 37:5, “Commit your way unto the Lord; trust also in Him, and HE SHALL BRING IT TO PASS.” What will occur when we neglect the importance of the word “if,” and not pray, not committing our way unto the Lord? God is NOT obligated to answer prayer, or to guide, if we are not willing to obey, to follow Christ, believing Him to fulfill His word. It all depends on my response to the word “if.”
Dear Father, Thou creator of this blessed word “IF,” give us grace to quickly recognize the potential of such a choice and consequent eternal blessing, in responding rightly to You. Strengthen us to “launch out” into the deep of Thy faithfulness, unwavering and certain. Then we shall see Thy kingdom come in an ever-increasing way for Thy glory. We thank Thee, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Love, Dad