To whom do we belong? Are we our own person in that we are guided by our own desires? Are we drawn into following whatever the majority decides to do and find our belonging there? Because of our own lack of wisdom to alone direct our life steps (i.e. Jeremiah 10:23-24), and that the world’s wisdom is often foolish (1 Corinthians 1:20) and self-centered and so creating disorder (note James 3:14-16), we actually need a means of saving us from both ourselves and the influence of the world. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to consider where we have truly found our sense of belong!
The psalmist in Psalm 119 stated. . .
“(92) If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction. (93) I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have given me life. (94) I am yours; save me, for I have sought your precepts.” (Psalm 119:92-94 ESV)
Belonging to God, the psalmist looked to Him for salvation. It was to the precepts of God to which the attention was turned. The listening was to the One to Whom he belonged.
Jesus noted His sheep — those who belong to Him — in the same manner. The shepherd is familiar with his sheep and the sheep become familiar with his voice to only follow it. (John 10:3) As the Good Shepherd, Jesus was willing to lay down His life for the sheep in great contrast to the one who was only a hireling. (John 10:11-13) Jesus went on to assure. . .
“(14) I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, (15) just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. (16) And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.” (John 10:14-16 ESV)
Those who refuse to listen do so because they do not know Jesus and have chosen to not be a part of His flock. (John 10:25-26) Let us continue listening to and following Him as it is in belonging to Him that we are in the safest hands. (John 10:27-28) Jesus is able to save to the uttermost! (Hebrews 7:25) Therefore, may we keep listening and following Him and experience the peace and security of belonging to Him both now and eternally!
Have a great day BLESSED IN THE RELATIONSHIP THAT TRANSCENDS THIS LIFE!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
