Encouraging Word
A requirement is something that is necessary or a need for a particular purpose. For the Christian, a few of these requirements are mentioned in Deuteronomy 10:12-13. “And now Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in His ways and love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the Lord’s commandments…”
Fear the Lord. Here, fear means to have reverential awe associated with a sacred respect for God’s power, holiness, and justice leading to obedience and humility.
Walk in His ways. This refers to obedience to God which means to live according to God’s law and commands and to follow Christ while submitting to His will and ways.
Love God. This is agape love which is defined as “unconditional positive regard and unselfish concern for the welfare of another.” It is also a love that is unending, unfailing, and unwavering. The Great Commandment is to love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength. God should always have first place in our lives. He should be our first love (Revelation 2:4).
Serve the Lord. Serve means to perform duties or services for another and to be useful. Romans 12:1 says that we are to present ourselves to God for spiritual service of worship. Joshua was one of those who was described as a “servant of the Lord.” What a compliment it would be if you and I could be referred to as God’s servant!
So let us all strive to fear the Lord, to walk in His ways, and to love and serve Him.
-Tony Cooper
Director Emeritus of Jimmie Hale Mission
