Belonging is submitting

• John 8:47 (NLT)

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Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” (John 8:47 NLT)

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Jesus was pretty clear when he drew a line in the sand. It was not about exclusion, but it was about clearly identifying where we stood; only then could we change.

There are a couple words that really bring clarity to what Jesus was saying here.

GLADLY. It's use was to reveal the heart of the person who hears the word of the Lord. No matter how hard, no matter the change that would be required to fulfill the request, they respond with gladness. It also reveals the trust the recipient has for the person giving instructions; no matter how audacious the request, they trust it/He right.

BELONGS. This word is not suggesting slavery. It seems to go beyond slavery. It reveals a nature of submission. I believe it speaks to the person listening as someone who has laid down their rights and following the cues of another.

Do I GLADLY BELONG to the Lord? Do I, too often, make rebuttals to the instructions He gives me?

Father,
I surrender all, with joy in my heart. AMEN.

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