NOVEMBER 27 – Reading 331

by Marcia Rainey | November 27

“I’M A CHILD OF GOD. YES, I AM!”
(Acts 19:8-41; Galatians 1:1-4:31)

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.” – Galatians 3:26

As we read the beginning of Paul’s letter to the Galatians, we are reminded how easily our hearts can drift from the gospel of grace into reliance on our own effort or religious tradition. Paul exhorts them to remember the freedom they have in Christ and the transforming power of God’s grace. It is through faith in Christ’s sacrifice alone that we are adopted into God’s family, welcomed as His children with all the rights and privileges of inheritance.

This truth is especially meaningful as we celebrate Thanksgiving. You will likely pause and reflect on the many temporal blessings that are in your life, which are yours because of His hand of provision and generosity. May we also pause and reflect on the spiritual blessings that are ours through the gift of God, his son Jesus. Let us cling to God’s grace and our identity as His children, rather than try to earn His favor through our own efforts. Gratitude begins with acknowledging that every blessing—faith, hope, love, and eternal life—flows from His hands because we belong to Him. There are so many blessings and benefits to being a child of the One True God–both here and now and in the eternal life to come!

Let the words of the lyrics to “Who You Say I Am” resonate within you this day:

Who am I that the highest King would welcome me?
I was lost, but He brought me in; Oh, His love for me.

Who the Son sets free is free indeed. I’m a child of God.
Yes, in my Father’s house there’s a place for me.
I’m a child of God. Yes, I am! 

Free at last, He has ransomed me. His grace runs deep!
While I was a slave to sin, Jesus died for me. Yes, He died for me!

I am chosen, not forsaken. I am who You say I am.
You are for me, not against me. I am who You say I am.

Adoption by God is such a gift! May gratitude well up in your soul today as you embrace your identity in Christ, blessed child of God! 

Simple Truth:
It is by faith in Jesus Christ alone that grants us the blessing of being a child of God. 

Reflections:

• How does knowing you are God’s child deepen your gratitude and trust in Him?

   

• Where might you be relying on your own efforts instead of embracing faith and your identity in Christ?

   

• How has God’s grace and adoption shaped the way you love and serve others?

Application:

• Celebrate and thank God for His grace and your adoption as His child.

   

• Share your story of God’s grace and adoption into His family with your family or friends as God gives you opportunity.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, You are such a merciful and gracious God, abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. Thank you for sending your Son to bear my sin, to redeem my life, and make me an heir to Your promises. Lord, help me to live each day with a heart that fully trusts in Jesus’ work and a heart that is full of gratitude for this privilege of being Yours. Teach me to walk as Your child, reflecting Your love to others, specifically helping me make You known to others who have yet to experience the joy of being Your child. In Jesus’ name, Amen.