Sonship

                           

“For all those led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear. Instead, you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father!” The Spirit himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, and if children, also heirs- heirs of God and coheirs with Christ- if indeed we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.” Romans 8:14-17

What does the name of Jesus mean for you?

I loved when I taught preschoolers, and it was kids who didn’t worship God and that name was mentioned and their eyes would light up. Just the mention of the name brought a smile to their faces, an radiant joy that we would always sing about. The simple song, “Jesus Loves Me” would be one I would teach them. But the greater joy would be teaching them about what that meant for their individual lives. Never being alone. Always having access to God. Having his Holy Spirit to guide them and direct their little hearts. Even when they had a hard time listening or being kind to their siblings. The ability to stop and ask Jesus for help because He loved them and wanted that kind of relationship with them. In a way it was such a simple way to teach the truth because we as we get older complicate it so much.

At least I seem to do that, but I would bet I am not the only one. The enemy is just waiting for myself to step in when Jesus says, “Come to me.” Jesus desires to lead me in every way and I choose some of that leading. And I can’t count the times I allow fear to step in. He allows me to be led by His Spirit and sometimes I would rather just lead myself. 

I am in relationship with Jesus and that requires me continuing to listen and allow him to guide me and direct me. I must continue to see myself with IN Christ Jesus. I will create the barriers when I don’t allow Him to do the leading. When I surrender there are NO barriers to what He wants to do within my heart and mind. He is teaching me daily what that means to worship Him alone. A daily surrender. 

But what better teacher? Why would I follow anyone else?

I GET to partner with Jesus. I am a coheir with Christ and share all the spiritual blessings because I am a child of God. I get to receive direction on how to live here down on earth. I GET to be led by the Holy Spirit and some days I just settle for myself.  

What is getting in the way of what He desires? Tell Him. 

Father,

Don’t let us settle for a faith that doesn’t have a passion for you. Help us to linger and learn the deeper meaning of living in relationship with you Jesus. You love us despite our ourselves. This we know. We know this because you love us as a father with unconditional love. Our struggles are because they too can glorify you Jesus. We bear your name Jesus. That is the name above all other names. We belong to you only. Lead us and guide us every day. 

Amen