Life as God’s Children
For Meditation
In Romans 8, Paul has been building his case that those who are in Christ have a dramatic new identity, and our calling is now to live out of that new identity. In verses 14–17, he expands this idea and adds a new layer to our identity: in and through Christ and his Spirit, we are adopted as God's children. Once cut off from God and slaves to sin, through Christ we have now been adopted into God's family and share all of the privileges of Jesus’ own relationship with God the Father.
While it is easy to fall back into “orphan” or “slave” mentality, thinking we are on our own in the world, Paul urges us to live every day as the children of God that we are. With the help of God's Spirit, we can be reminded of who we are and enjoy the freedom, joy and intimacy of life with God as Father.
To prepare for tor worship this week, slowly and prayerfully read through Romans 8 and ask God to remind you that you are his child.
Romans 8:14-17
14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. 15 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.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.