John Sammis gave up his life as a businessman and part-time YMCA worker to study for the ministry. In 1880, he was ordained and pastored several churches. In his later years, Sammis taught at the Bible Institute of Los Angeles. Together with Daniel Towner, he wrote more than 100 hymns. One of his most well-known pieces is still sung today in congregations around the world. In it, Sammis wrote: “Trust and obey / for there’s no other way / to be happy in Jesus / but to trust and obey.”

Showing steadfast love to…those who love me and keep my commandments.

Exodus 20:6

When God’s own finger engraved the Ten Commandments into stone, He indicated in the midst of them that those who love Him will keep His commandments. Yet it seems many nowadays have renounced God’s laws, no longer even calling them the “Ten Suggestions.” Who among you can say you’ve kept all of His commandments? While obedience may be lacking, the Sammis lyrics remind you that trusting is the other half of happiness in Jesus; trusting Him to forgive you, lead you, inspire you, and love you forever.

When you intercede for America’s leaders today, pray that they will find and know Jesus through both trust and obedience…and therefore experience His steadfast love.

Recommended Reading: Exodus 20:1-17