In Jesus You Are: Understanding Your Identity in ChristSample

Monday: In Jesus I am Adopted

Read: Ephesians 1:5–6, Colossians 1:12–13

SOAP: Ephesians 1:5

"He did this by predestining us to adoption as his legal heirs through Jesus Christ, according to the pleasure of his will.” 

Have you ever watched a video of a child learning they’re going to be adopted, or witnessed the celebration of a family when a judge declares their adoption complete? It’s one of the most beautiful, heartwarming moments. Despite the trauma and brokenness the child and their first family experienced, God provided a new way for family, for togetherness to exist. Suddenly a child’s life is changed as they become a permanent, legal, complete member of a family. Adoption tells a child they are wanted, loved, and secure.

If you say your identity is “abandoned,” “unwanted,” “ignored,” “overlooked,” or “forgotten,” there is good news—great news, in fact! When we accept Jesus as our Savior we get a new identity as adopted sons and daughters of God. You are chosen. You are wanted. You are known. You are loved. You are secure. No one has the power to undo what God has done. When we are adopted into the family of God we are His, forever.

The even better news is, God didn’t wait for us to get our lives together or become perfect people before He decided to offer us the full rights, privileges, and responsibilities of believers. It was decided, in love and in accordance with God’s will, that we would be adopted into His family through Jesus Christ.

When was the last time you embraced that identity? Have you come before God in amazement that He would choose you? Have you celebrated the amazing gift you’ve received through Jesus? God loves you so much, there isn’t a “Welcome Home” sign big enough or confetti-filled enough to celebrate when you become part of His family. In Jesus, we are adopted!

Prayer: God, it’s overwhelming to know that You were thinking of me and planning a place for me in Your family before I ever knew Jesus. Thank You for the beautiful gift of adoption that You offer so freely. Help me live in a way that honors who You say I am. Amen.