POST 14: You Are a Child of God
POST 14
You Are a Child of God
Throughout the pages of this portion of the book, you will notice three words we come back to often: child of God.
These words are not simply a cute catchphrase or an empty platitude—they are words bursting with deep meaning.
What does it mean to be a child of God?
First, it means God created us. In Genesis, we learn that God created humans with love and intentionality. God desires to have a relationship with us. We are made in the image of God, which gives us inherent value and worth.
Second, we read in Ephesians 1:5 that although sin separates us from God, we are offered an opportunity to join God’s family through adoption because of Jesus. It was God’s loving plan that we would be united with God forever.
Third, we are transformed into new creations. Second Corinthians 5:17 says we are made new. We are given a new nature. It’s because of this new nature that we begin to experience transformation in our thoughts and actions. Little by little, we take on God’s family resemblance.
Fourth, we have direct access to God, who loves us and supplies all our needs. We can trust God to care for us just as good parents care for their children. We do not need to fear coming before God, our perfect parent—instead, we are invited into God’s family.
Finally, we can be confident that God will stick it out with us and that eventually we’ll be together face-to-face: “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns” (Philippians 1:6 NLT).
Wow. That’s a lot!
Realizing all that it means to be a child of God can be overwhelming, but don’t be afraid. It’s with so much love that you’re called God’s child.
Every other identity you hold on to is second to this.
When you view life through this lens, everything changes.
READING GOD’S WORD
God destined us to be his adopted children through Jesus Christ because of his love. This was according to his goodwill and plan. (Ephesians 1:5)
There is neither Jew nor Greek; there is neither slave nor free; nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:28)
REFLECT AND RESPOND
Journaling Questions
What are some identity markers you have been building your life on?
What does it mean to make child of God your primary identity?
How might making that the most important part of your identity change how you think about your life and relationships?
Pray This Prayer
God, when I begin to forget, remind me that I am a child of God. This is my primary and most important identity. Thank you for making me and calling me your own. I trust in you to care for me and provide for all my needs. In Jesus’ name, amen.
SOMETHING TO TRY
Use a dry-erase marker to write “Child of God” on your mirror at home. See this as a daily reminder of who you are.
THE TAKEAWAY
Whoever else you may be, your first identity is child of God.