# 637
When we have a toothache we cannot simply ignore it. We must take action to correct the problem. So when the pain speaks to us we must respond to it.
In the same way, when God speaks to us, we must respond to him. We can listen to God and be obedient, or we can ignore him and be disobedient. If we are disobedient to God then we are separating ourselves from him. There may be times of pain and hardship but we endure these things because of the love God has shown us. So while pain is a motivation for going to see a dentist, love is the motivation for doing God's will.
John 14:23
Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him and we will come to him and make our home with him."
(0637 08VII2008)