Another aspect of our identity in Christ is our adoption into the family. When we believe, we become a child of God. How cool is that? My wife is adopted, and one of the things her adoptive parents told her was that of all the kids available, they chose her! She never struggled with abandonment, as many who are adopted do. That’s because she knew that she was chosen. The same goes for you.

When God adopted you, He signed your adoption paperwork with a signature that never fades on paper which never deteriates. Your adoption as a child of God is forever. Four tremendous gifts come with adoption. Marcus Warner wrote about these in his book, Deeper Walk. 

First, we have access to the Father. A good father is always available to his kids. God is always available to you. 24/7/365. Unlimited access to a good father is a gift of adoption that we sometimes forget. 

Second, we are accepted. Once you are in the family, you are in. When the US played in the last World Cup, my friend and I walked into a pub that was playing the game. I had on my American Outlaws hat and was immediately accepted by over 100 people that I had never met. This happens on a deeper and more glorious level when you become part of God’s family. 

Third, you have authority. When you become God’s child, He grants you the authority of Jesus’ name. Never take that for granted, and never abuse it. When you act with the authority you’ve been given as a child, you should never act counter to the will of the Father. To know the will and to exercise this authority, you must be in fellowship with the Father through study, prayer, and community. 

Finally, when you become a child of God, you are given a glorious inheritance. We don’t know exactly what this is, but we know that God’s resources are inexhaustible. So, whatever it looks like, it is beyond our wildest imagination.

What a magnificent truth about our identity! When we believe in Jesus, we get a new identity. That new identity means you are child of the one true King!

Sing along with Zach Williams, I am a Child of God!