Governed by God

But it is not that the word of God has taken no effect. For they are not all Israel who are of Israel, nor are they all children because they are the seed of Abraham; but, “In Isaac your seed shall be called.” That is, those who are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God; but the children of the promise are counted as the seed. Romans 9:6-8

Last Sunday we learned that the name “Israel” means, “Governed by God” (which is why God changed Jacob's name to Israel). It implies being in the family of God, being under His authority, and being submitted to His will.  This is why Paul said that not all who are Israel by birth are governed by God.  It’s not that God isn't willing to govern His people, but rather that God isn’t a dictator who forces Himself in control of a person’s life. In order to be governed by God, there must be a willingness to be governed by God.  There must be a surrender.

For the same reason not all who are “in the church” are actually governed by God. Just believing in God and being in church doesn't equate to being governed by God.  In order to be governed by God, there must be a willing surrender of my will and my life.  To me this is the essence of our faith, not just saying a prayer and getting my ticket punched to heaven, but willingly allowing Christ to be my Lord and Savior, and allowing God access to every part of my life.  It means raising the white flag of surrender.  Chris Tomlin wrote a song that celebrates this act, the chorus line goes:

We raise our white flags, we surrender all to You, all for You

We raise our white flags, the war is over,

Love has come, your love has won.

This is one of my favorite worship songs, as it declares what I must deal with each and every day:  The act of laying down my weapons, my will, my stubbornness, my rebel heart, and surrendering to Him who loves me.

Pastor Clay