Known and Loved: A 4-Day Devotional for Adult Adoptees by Iris Bryantಮಾದರಿ

God Has Called Me by Name

“But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine.” Isaiah 43:1 NKJV

“Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” Ephesians 1:5-7 NKJV

“You are a Cabbage Patch Kid!”

“They are not your real parents!”

“At least I know who my real parents are!”

When I was growing up, these phrases became a popular anthem heralded around me. During my earliest years of school, I didn’t know I was adopted, so I thought my playmates were just being mean. Because of their taunts, I quickly learned the easiest way to retaliate was with the popular phrase, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but your words will never hurt me!”

That was my automatic response, and I could proclaim it with much conviction, but internally truth was not embedded in the words I spoke.

The words I heard on the playground, school bus, at family gatherings, and even at church not only hurt me but also left me emotionally and mentally wounded long after the chants ended.

There is power in the names we are called. Even when we don’t answer to or readily identify with the names, they have the potential to shape our thinking and our future.

As much as I wanted to believe the words in the famous “sticks and stones” chant, my heart knew the truth. Those words did indeed hurt!

However, I have been able to find healing and a soothing balm in the word of God.

In Isaiah 43, we see a beautiful portrait of our Heavenly Father. During times of uncertainty and despite unanswered questions, He claims us as His own. He redeems us, and He calls us by name.

That declaration will speak for eternity.

I am known and loved by God and will forever cherish the name He calls me.

Respond: What are some negative words and phrases you need to cancel with the word of God? Write down phrases and the scripture that solidify who you are in Christ. Which words are you more likely to accept? Assess your answer and begin the practice of calling yourself who God calls you.