In Jesus You Are: Understanding Your Identity in ChristSample

Tuesday: In Jesus I am a Child of God

Read: John 1:12, 1 John 3:1–2

SOAP: John 1:12

“But to all who have received him—those who believe in his name—he has given the right to become God’s children.” 

When was the last time you played pretend or built a fort? Have you had a moment recently to let your imagination run wild, to laugh with your whole body, or make a mess in the name of creativity? Children see the world in an amazing way, as though everything in it is their playground. Items we see as trash become precious art supplies and silly games with no rules bring the loudest giggles. 

Children live with open hearts and minds, ready to learn and willing to change. They rely on the adults in their lives to love them, keep them safe, and answer all the questions that come to mind when they should be getting ready for bed. 

That’s the relationship we’re invited into when we become part of God’s family. We are His children, and we receive not only the rights and privileges that come with our adoption, but a perfect Father who loves us, protects us, and listens to all of the questions that keep us awake at night. He is big enough to carry the weight of our worries so we can find freedom. 

In Jesus, we are called children of God. If your experience with an earthly father makes it hard for you to lean into God the Father, bring all of that hurt and disappointment to Him. Spend time in God’s Word and learn more about who He is and how much He loves you. Look for the small gifts He offers throughout your day and write down the little, ordinary ways He shows up in your life. Our God is unchanging and perfect. He made a place for you in His family—and that was not a mistake.

Prayer: God, thank You for calling me Your child and for giving me a safe, perfect, loving place to come with all of my questions and worries. Help me find time to simply be child–like with You, laughing and creating and using my imagination freely and with joy. Amen.