Written by Guest Contributor Dora Lozano

“42 Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me. 43 Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. 44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! 46 Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me? 47 Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.” – John 8:42-47 (NIV)

Sheep respond only to the voice of their shepherd. The sheep have absolute trust that their shepherd is going to lead them to safe pasture. Shepherds lead their sheep and they do not drive them like cattle. Jesus is our shepherd.

We chose to belong to Jesus, we know His voice.  The Holy Spirit speaks to our heart and soul, drawing us closer into a relationship with Jesus. Our responsibility is to hear and take action.  The “action” part is where I fail sometimes. I recently began to revise and review the notes that I took in services at church. I even wrote out the complete Bible verses.  When I did this I realized that I had a deeper understanding of the lesson that was taught and it was easier to find ways to apply what I had learned to my life.

I challenge you to do the same.  Our pastors work hard to create a message for us in each service that will penetrate our hearts and move us to action. It is our choice how we respond. Take notes during the message at church, revise them and see if you receive a greater revelation for your life and apply it.

Lord, thank you for leading us and for being in a relationship with us.  We know your voice and we choose to belong to you. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

Guest Contributor Bio: Dora Lozano is a faithful follower of Christ living out her faith daily. Dora is the mother of two amazing children. The eldest is in their junior year at university. The youngest is in their sophomore year of high school. Dora has spent thirty years working in the California Community College system. Currently, Dora is an academic counselor for foster youth and homeless youth at a community college in Southern California. Dora’s personal mission statement is to “Love God, Do Good and Serve, Teach and Encourage Others”. Dora lives out her mission through her work and in her faith community where she serves on the usher team. Dora enjoys spending time with her children and her sweet puppy dog. As a family they enjoy being loud and silly, listening to a wide variety of music, taking road trips, making popcorn and watching movies. Dora is honored to be a guest contributor on the devotional for Mary E. White Ministries.

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