“But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” – John 1:12
Being Chosen by God
Being a child of God means being chosen for a special purpose. We, as believers, can take comfort in knowing that God has selected us to be part of His family. This privilege reflects His great love for us and assures us that we have a place in His heart. As children of God, we are invited to step into our divine identity, embracing the abundant life that comes from belonging to Him. Let’s remember that this selection by our Creator is not based on our own merit but on His grace and love.
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Ephesians 1:4-5
“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love, he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.” – Ephesians 1:4-5
Romans 8:16
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” – Romans 8:16
Galatians 4:7
“So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.” – Galatians 4:7
Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
Living as God’s Children
Being a child of God carries with it responsibilities. We are called to live in a way that reflects our identity and to exhibit qualities that bring honor to His name. As we grow in faith, we learn to embody the characteristics of God: love, compassion, and integrity. Our actions should consistently reflect the teachings of scripture, and this lifestyle transforms us, making us true followers of Christ. Together we can look for ways to live out our identity, being examples of faithful, loving children of God.
Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14
1 John 3:10
“This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child.” – 1 John 3:10
Ephesians 5:1
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children.” – Ephesians 5:1
Philippians 2:15
“So that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” – Philippians 2:15
1 Peter 1:14
“As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.” – 1 Peter 1:14
The Love of God
The love that God has for us as His children is immeasurable. This divine love is what establishes our identity and provides us with security. As we acknowledge that we are loved unconditionally by our Father, we can find strength to face life’s challenges. This love invites us into a deeper relationship with Him and influences our relationships with others. The more we embrace that we are children of God, the more we reflect this love to those around us. Together, we can aspire to live in the fullness of God’s love.
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
1 John 4:9
“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” – 1 John 4:9
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Ephesians 2:4-5
“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” – Ephesians 2:4-5
Psalm 36:7
“How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.” – Psalm 36:7
Receiving Inheritance as Children of God
As children of God, we are heirs to His promises. This means we have access to the blessings and riches of His kingdom. The concept of inheritance reminds us of the abundant life that God desires for us. Through our faith in Jesus, we can embrace the eternity that He has secured for us. Being an heir encourages us to live with hope and confidence, knowing that we are entitled to spiritual blessings that enrich our lives. We should strive to understand the fullness of our inheritance as we walk in faith.
Romans 8:17
“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.” – Romans 8:17
Galatians 3:29
“If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” – Galatians 3:29
Ephesians 1:11
“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.” – Ephesians 1:11
Hebrews 9:15
“For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.” – Hebrews 9:15
1 Corinthians 3:21-23
“So then, no more boasting about human leaders! All things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God.” – 1 Corinthians 3:21-23
Confidence in Our Identity
As children of God, we can walk with confidence because our identity is secure in Him. We don’t have to question our worth or place in God’s family. This assurance builds a strong foundation for our lives. In every situation, we can hold fast to the truth that we belong to God. By trusting Him and knowing we are valued as His children, we are empowered to face life’s challenges. Let us encourage each other to embrace this confidence and grow in our identity as children of God.
2 Timothy 1:7
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
1 John 5:14
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14
Sharing Our Identity
Being children of God is not only a privilege; it’s also a call to share the love of God with others. Our identity as God’s children encourages us to reflect His character in our relationships. We have a responsibility to reach out and spread His love and truth to the world. Through our actions and words, we can make a positive impact on others, showing them the love of Christ. Together, we can commit to actively sharing our identity and ensuring that others also experience the boundless love of God.
Matthew 28:19
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28:19
Luke 6:31
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” – Luke 6:31
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
2 Corinthians 5:20
“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” – 2 Corinthians 5:20
Final Thoughts
Being a child of God is a beautiful and profound truth that affects every part of our lives. We are chosen, loved, and empowered to live out our faith in an impactful way. We have been given an incredible inheritance and confidence in our identity which inspires us to share this love with others. We are not just passive recipients of God’s grace; we are to actively participate in His plan and purpose. As we meditate on these teachings, let’s embrace our identity and responsibility together.
As we grow in understanding and faith, we can look to how Jesus loves the children and how He is the Son of God. If you’re curious to explore more, consider reading Bible Verses About Jesus Loving Children or Bible Verses About Jesus Being the Son of God. These lessons will deepen our journey as children of God.