This morning I was thinking about who I am to God.
It’s a topic so often discussed, and not often practiced. There are many relationship connections between us and God—Provider, Lord, Savior, Friend—For some God is a King who rules from up above; for others he is a feared master that keeps us in line; yet for another he can be a convenient “get out of jail free” card. But the Bible highlights numerous times the beautiful relationship we have as children of God. In the 3rd chapter of 1 John it says:
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”
While the earthly reflections of a father relationship can leave a bad taste in some people’s mouths, the scriptures count it a privilege to be called a child of God!
Being a child of God means:
I don’t have to worry about my needs, because my father will provide for me. (Matt. 6:31-32)
I don’t have to fear, because my father will protect me. (Heb. 13:6)
I cannot be disqualified by my “sin”, because I am qualified by his mercy. (1 Pet. 1:3-6)
I belong to a big family that is tied together by grace. (Eph. 2:19)
I have access to my Father lap at all times. (Heb. 4:16)
When we accept the gift of grace that Christ gave us, we enter into a brand new relationship with him.
“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Rom. 8:14-15)
We belong to God. We are his children and he is our father. It's incredible that we actually have access to everything that comes along with that relationship!
Take a pause today and search your heart. Have you been accessing the privileges that come with being called a child of God? How do you approach God? Are you dependent? Trusting? Confident?
What a privilege to reach out and cry “Father!” knowing that he will be there to pick us up in his strong arms!