And by this we know that we have learned to know him--by our laying his commands to heart.

Here is how we can know what genuine love really is: It was [demonstrated by] Jesus laying down His life [on the cross] for us. And [because of that] we [too] should [be willing to] lay down our lives for [the sake of helping] our brothers [and sisters].

and we receive from him whatever we ask, because we are laying his commands to heart, and are doing what is pleasing in his sight.