My dear friend, it is such a joy to greet you. Today, we are meditating on John 8:47, which says, "Whoever belongs to God hears what God says." These were the words of Jesus as He preached to the people. Among His listeners were even the Pharisees. Yet, instead of truly hearing Him, they listened only to argue. They did not seek to understand His words or believe in what He was saying. They dismissed His message, saying, “You are not of the Father, so whatever You say is not true.” Simply because His words were not favourable to them, they refused to listen, understand, or believe. In the same way, this often happens in our own lives. When someone says something that contradicts our thoughts or expectations, we tend to reject it. Even if it is for our own good, we resist it simply because it does not align with what we want to hear.

Likewise, we sometimes behave this way toward God. He may ask us to obey His commands and follow His will, but it may feel difficult for us to do so. Perhaps He is leading us to take a new job, move to a different place, or leave behind certain pleasures. Because we are so comfortable in our way of life, we may not even want to listen to God. As a result, we might stop praying, neglect His commands, and live a life apart from Him. But, my dear friend, the Bible reminds us in Deuteronomy 30:16, "For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to Him, and to keep His commands, decrees, and laws. Then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you."

So today, let us make a firm decision to love the Lord, walk in obedience, and keep His commands. When we do this, He will guide us on the right path, bless us, and increase us. Let us not be like the Pharisees who only listened when it suited them and turned away when it did not. To truly belong to God, we must hear His voice, obey His commands, and follow His will. No matter how difficult it may seem, when we surrender our own will and follow His, He will bless us with a life full of prosperity and with His perfect plans that are designed for our ultimate good. So, my friend, make this commitment today by saying, "Lord, I want to belong to You, hear Your voice, and do Your will." May God bless you richly.

PRAYER: 
Dear Lord, I come before You with a humble heart, longing to hear Your voice. Help me to listen to Your voice with obedience, not just when it is easy, but in all circumstances. Grant me the strength to surrender my will completely and to trust in Your perfect plans for my life. When Your path seems difficult, remind me that Your ways are always for my good. Fill my heart with love for You, that I will walk in obedience and keep Your commands. Draw me closer to You each day so that I can walk in step with Your will. Lord, I choose to belong to You, to hear Your voice, and to follow You always. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.