A strong, loving relationship between a father and his children grounds them in their identity and teaches them who they are. The same is true for a relationship between us and God, only to a much greater degree. When we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we become God’s children, and automatically receive all the benefits accompanying this special relationship. Knowing our spiritual identity gives us the strength and power to succeed in all we do.
What we don’t understand provides an opportunity for spiritual darkness to enter into our lives. Until we understand who we are in Christ, we’ll continue to struggle in life. Worldly understanding only goes so far before letting us down; it’s different than the permanent, life-changing knowledge we receive from God’s Word. In all our getting, we must get His understanding.
Until Jesus came, there was no opportunity to be children of God. Under the law, the people were servants; they had to rely on self-effort to please Him. Under grace, we’re no longer servants, but sons and daughters; God is already pleased with us, and all that’s necessary now is faith in Him. As many as receive Him, to them He gives the right and privilege to become His sons.
Servants don’t have the privilege of inheriting anything from their masters; as God’s children, we inherit by faith the same promises that Abraham received. Putting on Christ makes us heirs according to the promise. However, just as children can’t receive their inheritance until they come of age, we must mature in our faith before receiving our divine inheritance.
Under the law, God was an angry judge; under grace, He’s our loving heavenly Father. God’s servants were led by the Ten Commandments; His sons are led by His Spirit. As sons possessing the same authority and power as Jesus, as He is, so are we in this world. This knowledge transforms us from ordinary people to supernatural beings, and forever changes us.
Prayer:
Father God, You made us Your children because of Your great love for us. This frees us from constantly having to work to please You, and gives us the freedom to enjoy our relationship with You. Thank You for what You did. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Scriptures:
Proverbs 4:7
John 1:12
Galatians 3:26, 27, 29
Galatians 4:1-7
Romans 8:14
1 John 4:17
For more on how a relationship with God as our heavenly Father dramatically changes our lives for the better, click on the link below for the three CD-series, Your Identity in Christ.