Part of the Family
“For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’” Romans 8:15
How do you relate to God? Do you live in fear of his anger, worried and afraid that he will mistreat you? Are you trying to prove that you’re worth his time, building up good works to show that you’re of value to him? Do you make deals with him, asking for his help in exchange for blessing?
This verse in Romans tells us that we can relate to God as our Father, a good and generous dad who knows the intricacies of our hearts. We have been adopted into his family, counted as children with all the rights and privileges of a true family member. As Galatians 4:7 says, we no longer have to act like a slave. We no longer need to try to prove ourselves through our good works. God doesn’t need to see that we are a worthy investment or a good choice. When we have trusted in Jesus, his Son, we are called heirs. We inherit God’s kingdom.
This means that we can be sure of God’s approval. ALWAYS and forevermore.
We are enfolded into his family, and we share the same favor that God has extended to his Son Jesus. We are assured of his protection and peace. He tells us that he will always provide for our needs, and that he will never leave us or cast us off. God also blesses us by giving us his Spirit to live in us. He is so committed to our well being, to helping us know that he is for us, that he gives us a part of himself to lead us and direct our steps.
When we know this assurance and these promises of God’s commitment to us, several things happen. . . . We become secure in who we are because we know WHOSE we are. We can be honest about our failures and sin, feeling freedom to mess up. Because we know that our heavenly Father delights in us, we can enjoy our relationship with God and his good gifts to his people.
For Further Reading: Galatians 4:4-7