But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name John 1:12 WEB
How wonderful is our God? How encouraging is it to know that Jesus gives power to the repentant to become the sons of God? The Lord provides a way to redemption from sin for anyone who will believe in him. Through the gift of his Son, Jesus Christ, God paid the price for sin. In addition, through the blood of Jesus, God made a way for repentant sinners to accept adoption into his holy family. This statement from John 1:12 effectively sums up the Gospel message. Every person that places faith in Jesus Christ becomes a child of God.
Being children of God, the sons of god, we have rewards, and responsibilities. First, we receive forgiveness for sin. Also, the Lord gives us the promise of eternal life. Beyond that, we get our moral guidance from the word of God in addition to the comfort and support of the Holy Spirit.
Obedient to God
As God’s adopted children, the responsibility to live in obedience to his word is ours. There are consequences to disobedience. The scripture tells us in Proverbs 3:11-12, “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in. NIV” Hebrews 12:7 reminds us saying, “It is for discipline that you endure. God deals with you as with children, for what son is there whom his father doesn’t discipline? WEB” When we make mistakes, we can count on consequences and correction from our loving Father who only wants what is best for us.
Believing in the divinity of Jesus Christ makes you and I a part of a wonderful family. We are sons of God, daughters of the Most High. We support one another, even preferring one another. In fellowship with other believers, our brothers, and sisters of faith, we receive understanding and further opportunities for spiritual growth. Through Jesus Christ, God blesses and empowers us as his own children.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for receiving me into your family. Thank you for your grace and forgiveness. Search my heart, correct me, and guide me to live a life of service that is pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Glorify God
