“So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.”
We all need to see the word "rejoice" because it is something to celebrate with cheers and praises. Jesus came and made us not only friends but God's children. I love what it says in these next 2 verses; Romans chapter 8 verses 15-16, “So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when He adopted you as His own children. Now we call Him, “Abba, Father.” For His Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.” Rejoice!!! We are family, so let's keep growing and living a way that shows it. This is done by us studying His word, praying, and living it out.
Look what it says in John chapter 10 verse 27, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” The Holy Spirit will guide us to all truth so we need stop and listen, we can't let the loudness of this world drown out His voice. We take the effort to hear, then He knows us - that is our effort - then because of that relationship we follow Him. I love the fact that it is a relationship of love: Him teaching, guiding, serving, and doing so that we understand everything He has for us. Let's remember this as we continue to grow and reach new people for Christ. I pray that we always rejoice in knowing how much He loves us. Amen