Charles Spurgeon Commentary 1 John 5:2-3

"Hereby we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and do his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous." — 1 John 5:2-3 (ASV)

By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments:

Not that we talk about our experience; not, that we use endearing expressions concerning the Saviour; not, that we are attentive to outward religious ordinances; but this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. A holy life is the best possible proof of true love to God.

By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments and his commandments are not grievous.

Love is a practical thing; love without obedience is a mere pretense. True love shows itself by seeking to please the one who is loved. May God the Holy Ghost work in us perfect obedience to the commands of God, that we may prove that we really do love him!