At the time of this column there are reports of violence in Israel. Dozens have died and hundreds have been injured. The riots were sparked by two opposing religious claims to the same piece of earth. I’m referring to the Temple Mount in East Jerusalem.

I can’t help but wonder. If those who were killed knew they were going to die, would they have stayed home? Perhaps they would have. Yet, could it be possible there were some individuals who would have been still willing to go – even if it meant death? If so, how about the others who died? Would they be any less a martyr for their cause?

Such questions only God can answer. The Bible says even we don’t always know the true motives in our hearts and minds – only God knows (Hebrews 4:12-13).

 Sometimes we deceive ourselves by confusing our zeal for true devotion. Once Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, why can I not follow You right now? I will lay down my life for You.” Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly, I say to you, a cock shall not crow, until you deny Me three times” (John 13:37-38 New American Standard Bible). 

Here Peter clearly demonstrated his great zeal for the cause. But Jesus knew it was only zeal and would be temporary. Peter needed a deeper devotion. 

If God alone knows our hearts, how can we know the true depth of our devotion to Jesus? Interestingly, following the above account of Jesus’ conversation with Peter, the Bible provides an answer. One way we can measure our devotion to Jesus is by how well we keep His commandments. Jesus stated simply, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15)

 This brings us to another question. What are Jesus’ commandments? Is He talking about the 10 commandments God gave Moses? Or, is He talking about different commandments? In fact, if we don’t even know this, how can we say that we love Him? 

Once again the Bible answers itself. Immediately after Jesus questioned the depth of Peter’s devotion, we find the heart and soul of Jesus’ teachings to His disciples – the commandments they were to obey.  Although there were more, following are a list of 10 (John chapters 14 and 15). 

Let not your heart be troubled.

As you believe in God, believe also in Me.

Believe that I will make room for you in heaven.

Believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me.

Believe by the works of the Father that I do.

Believe that you will do these works also – and greater!

Believe that I will do what ever you ask in My name to glorify the Father.

Abide (remain at all times) in Me.

Go and bear fruit.

Above all, love one another.

So Christian, the next time you become fearful and anxious about something, remember Jesus’ first commandment; Let not your heart be troubled.

And ask yourself, “How deep is my devotion to Jesus?”