First John 2:3 says, And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments (ESV). In other words, following God is expressed through obedience to His Word. First John 2:4–5 continues, Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected (ESV). If someone were to ask me, “How do I know that I am in Christ?” — that Scripture would be my response because there is a direct correlation between being in Christ, walking with Christ, and being obedient to Christ. If any action, no matter how just or loving or “good,” takes us away from obedience to the Word of God, then it’s no longer just, loving, or good. Our walk must align with our talk. Only then will the love of God be perfected in us and the world know it is Jesus we follow.