Do you really know who you are in Christ? For too long, I believed that my salvation was merely a ticket to heaven, a sort of divine fire insurance policy. My perception of salvation was steeped in fear, with the sole purpose of avoiding eternal damnation. But little did I know, my understanding was missing the core essence of God's love, acceptance, and belonging.
In Romans 8:14-16, we're reminded that all who are led by the Spirit of God are His sons and daughters. We didn't receive a spirit of fear but one of adoption, crying out, "Abba! Father!" We are children of God. This passage underscores the profound relationship we have with our Heavenly Father.
Galatians 3:26-29 further reinforces this truth, stating that through faith in Christ Jesus, we are all God's children. We are united with Christ in baptism, erasing distinctions of nationality, social status, or gender. We are heirs to God's promises, children of Abraham.
Let's delve into the power of adoption. The Apostle Paul chose this term intentionally because, in Roman law, adopting a child meant an unbreakable, legal bond. Unlike biological children, adopted children could never be disowned, regardless of their actions. This covenant relationship beautifully mirrors God's relationship with us. He has chosen us, and He will never let us go.
My own experience with adoption illustrates this bond. When my husband and I adopted our precious daughter, she initially carried an air of uncertainty. She wondered about her place in our family, whether her new siblings would accept her, and if she could ask for things like they did. Over time, she realized that whatever her siblings had, she had too. Whatever entered our home was for her as well. Now, as a young adult, it's impossible to discern who was adopted – love knows no difference. This story illustrates how our Heavenly Father embraces us, no matter our past, as His beloved children.
The freedom of adoption extends to our spiritual lives. We are sons and daughters of God, a position that transcends gender. As sons, we inherit all that Jesus secured for us on the cross, with access to God's favor and abundant provision. We don't need to worry; our Heavenly Father knows our needs. We are secure in Him, and our role is to actively participate in our relationship with Him.
Our actions flow from who we are, not what we do. We are made righteous through Christ's work on the cross, not by our efforts. Our mission is to do good because of the Holy Spirit's presence within us, reflecting our heavenly family.
Colossians 3:1-25 emphasizes this freedom. In Christ, we've been raised to new life, and our true life is hidden with Him. We are called to live in peace, forgiveness, and love, clothed with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Our actions should always represent the Lord Jesus.
Too often, we live under the weight of rules and regulations, thinking we must earn love, forgiveness, or salvation. But Colossians reminds us that Jesus did the work for us. We've been set free from sin's bondage. We don't have to "pick up our toys" to earn a reward; we do it because we love Him.
Yet, past mistakes and shame can haunt us. The enemy seeks to capitalize on our errors and keep us trapped in shame. Remember, you are worthy of your new family in Christ. Embrace your identity as a child of God, and walk in the freedom and love He offers.
In closing, let's live out our faith not out of obligation but out of love for the One who adopted us into His family. We are sons and daughters of the Most High, and nothing can separate us from His love. Embrace your identity in Christ and walk confidently in the power of adoption.
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