John 6:37 – All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. (NIV)

Matthew 7:21 – Not everyone who says to me, "Lord, Lord," will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. (NIV)

My pooch loves her walks far more than I enjoy them on these wintery days. She is a double-furred dog who loves the cold and snow. From the way she pulls me when we walk, she would make a fine sled dog if she were not as old as she is. If I were not as old as I am, I'd enjoy all our walks more, but my aching bones frequently protest. In spite of that, I walk my canine friend because I care deeply about her wellbeing, and I know that she needs her walks to maintain her good health. My doctor states that I also need these walks for the sake of my own health. Walking is a good thing for both of us.

Although my furry, four-legged friend challenges me when we walk, that reason alone would never be enough to remove her from my life. She is loyal to me, and I reciprocate. She will likely be with me until the day one of us can no longer function. I would not willingly consider parting with her.

Jesus also exhibits incredible loyalty to those who follow Him. He promises that all those whom God gives to Him, He will never drive away. Because they are loyal, active followers, their testimony is found not only in their words, but in their deeds. They walk the talk of faith.

But there are those who do not.

These are self-willed and driven by ambition, who mainly seek their own selfish agenda instead of the will of our heavenly Father. To these phony followers, Jesus had only one thing to say, "I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!" (Matthew 7:23b NIV)

God calls us to let our faith in Christ Jesus shine through our words, deeds, and love.

Prayer: God, we pray that we may always show our faith in our words and deeds and in the way we show Your love to others through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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About the author:

Cassandra Wessel <casswessel4319@gmail.com>
Tionesta, Pennsylvania, USA
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