READING: Ezekiel 22-24, Psalm 134, John 8
It seems the words of Jesus as He spoke to Jews (many who rejected Him) could not be more clear:
- “If you continue in my word, you really are my disciples.” (John 8:31)
- “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I came from God and I am here.” (John 8:42)
- “The one who is from God listens to God’s words. This is why you don’t listen, because you are not from God.”(John 8:47)
Those who truly follow Jesus will consistently, faithfully, obediently persevere in their faith. Their commitment is not sporadic nor superficial. They know God’s Word, and they hear it and follow it. Moreover, those who are God’s children love Jesus, for He is the messenger the Father sent. And, John will later quote Jesus saying that those who love Him will obey Him (John 14:23-24). Ongoing disobedience is simply not an option for those who really carry the name, “Christian.”
Jesus, the Son of God, also speaks truth, and those who follow God will listen to His words; those who reject Him, on the other hand, give evidence of their rejection by their refusal to heed Jesus’ commands. Even if they hear His words, they pay little attention to them. They may even be religious people—like the Jews of Jesus’ day—but still by their actions deny the Son of God. Their disobedience stands between them and the Father.
What is the point today? We who claim to be followers of Jesus must listen to Him and obey Him. It’s really that simple.
PRAYER: “God, help me to obey You fully today.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Ezekiel 25-27, Psalm 85, John 9
