The Secret of Understanding

The man who has received my commands and obeys them--he it is who loves
me; and he who loves me will be loved by my Father; and I will love him
and will disclose myself to him" (John 14:21).
Have you felt that you were stumbling along more or less in the dark,
wishing now and then for a more vital spirituality, a greater
understanding of God, and more "love" for Him? Obedience is the secret
of spiritual insight. It is not given to any but those who obey, for
they are the *only* ones who love God. There is no love where there is
no obedience. To choose to disobey is to choose darkness. No wonder we
stumble. Open your heart to the Light by doing what God says. Then He
will know you as His true lover, will love you and disclose Himself to
you. And you will walk in the light.
--Elisabeth Elliot, "The Music of His Promises: Listening to God with
Love, Trust, and Obedience"