Jude 21 KJV
[21] “keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.”
Jude admonishes believers to build their lives on the Word of God, pray in the power of God, and remain in the love of God. If a Christian does the first two things, the last one will come naturally. The Word of God and prayer will keep an individual in the love of God. Our passion for God comes when we fellowship with Him in His Word and prayer. Our pulpits are dry, and our pews are silent because people are too busy and distracted. Think about how hard it is to get people to focus on their walk with God and commit to spending more time with Him. It amazes me how people can pack their schedule full of events and responsibilities, but there is seldom time planned for the Person they claim to love the most.
Dear reader, this verse stands as a reminder that our love for God will only be as strong as we plan for it to be. The more time you spend with someone, it makes you love them more. The more you know someone, the more you will love them. Are you keeping yourself in the love of God? Do not allow work, schedules, hobbies, and events to rule your life. Let your love for Christ be the motivating factor in your life. Remove the frustrations of life by focusing on your relationship with God. I have watched people as they backslide and become easily irritated and critical, slowly growing harder toward life and those around them. They lose their joy, tears, and their attitude of gratitude toward the Lord and His people. They talk about the negative things in life and become less patient with those around them.
What has happened to this individual that was once so joyful? What happened is they lost the love for God that they once had. They may still be serving and attending church, but they have backslidden in their heart, and you can see it in their spirit. The tender, gentle saint that once was a blessing to all has now become someone who will give you a piece of their mind if you cross them. This poor soul is in desperate need of revival. They no longer look for the mercy of our Lord to show to others because they no longer love God as they once did. To receive mercy means we must show mercy toward others. How can we be merciful if we do not have God’s love burning within us? I encourage you to make it your priority to keep yourself in the love of God.