Who Does God Say We Are?ናሙና

Sons of the Most High

From an early age, we’re told who we are: a good student if we get good grades, a valuable player on the court if we cover our man and put up decent shot percentages, and later, a good employee if we hit our quotas and don’t talk back to our boss.

But what about our identity as men from God’s perspective?

As men, we are chosen and adopted by God (Galatians 4:4-7). We’re not defined by our achievements, failures, or circumstances but by our identity as beloved sons of the Most High.

This status is not earned through our efforts or lost through our mistakes; it’s a gift and a manifestation of God's love. Our adoption as sons means we are heirs to His kingdom, sharing in the inheritance of eternal life with Christ (Hebrews 9:15).

It reminds me of Jean Valjean from Les Miserables. After being released from prison, Valjean is taken in by a kind bishop who offers him food and shelter. During the night, Valjean, desperate and hardened by years of suffering, steals the bishop's silverware and flees. When he is caught and brought back to the bishop, instead of accusing him, the bishop tells the police that the silverware was a gift. He even gives Valjean two more silver candlesticks, saying he had forgotten them.

This shocking act of mercy profoundly impacts Valjean, transforming his life. He becomes a man of integrity and compassion, dedicating his life to helping others.

The story is a moving illustration of sonship. Valjean, who felt worthless and defined by his past mistakes, was given a new identity through an act of unconditional love and forgiveness.

As sons of the Most High, we are given a new identity based not on our past but on the love and forgiveness of our Heavenly Father. This identity empowers us to live transformed lives, reflecting the love we have received to the world around us.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for adopting us as Your sons. Help us to live in the confidence of our identity as Your children, knowing that You deeply love and cherish us. Amen.

Reflection: How does knowing that you are a beloved son of God change how you approach challenges and difficulties in your life?