Daily Devotion – Being a child of God.
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God… you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.'” (Romans 8:14-17)
When we think about being part of God’s family, it’s easy to imagine ourselves as children—new, learning, and growing. Yet, the Bible teaches that through faith in Jesus Christ, we are not only born into God’s family but also adopted, given “adult standing” from the very beginning. This means our heavenly Father treats us with maturity, expecting us to grow and become more like Christ, and giving us the same spiritual privileges as the most mature saint.
1. The Privilege of Assurance
The Holy Spirit bears witness within us that we are children of God. This assurance isn’t always emotional; it’s a quiet confidence that God is our Father. Through God’s Word and the Spirit’s work, we know we belong to Him. When we worship, help others, or feel conviction, it’s the Spirit reminding us of our place in God’s family.
2. The Privilege of Freedom
As adopted children, we are willingly led by the Spirit. This freedom isn’t about doing as we please, but about knowing God’s will and obeying it out of love, not obligation. Our spiritual maturity is shown in how we walk with the Lord, accepting both privileges and responsibilities.
3. The Privilege of Confidence
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. We can approach God as “Abba, Father”—a term of deep affection and intimacy. This confidence allows us to speak to God freely, knowing we are loved and secure.
4. The Privilege of Inheritance
We are heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. Our inheritance isn’t just future glory, but every spiritual blessing in Christ—mercy, grace, and provision. We have a twofold claim: born into God’s family and adopted as legal heirs.
5. The Privilege of Suffering
Suffering for Christ is part of the Christian life. It tests and strengthens our faith, helping us grow into mature believers. God is always with us in trials, watching over us with love and care.
As a child of God, we have the wonderful peace that passes all understanding that the world cannot just fathom! As we lead up to Christmas, my heart truly overflows with the wonder of our Saviour’s birth in that little stable in Bethlehem – coming to the world He created but yet had no room for Him!
Heavenly Father, thank You for adopting me into Your family and giving me the privileges of assurance, freedom, confidence, inheritance, and even suffering. Help me to walk in maturity, trusting Your Spirit to lead me, and to use my freedom and blessings for Your glory and the good of others. Remind me daily that I am Your child, loved and secure in Christ. Amen.
Join with us this Wednesday at the chapel for a special time of Thanksgiving – as we gather and give our Lord the praise and thanksgiving due His name!