Most Forbearing Lord, You use the words “adopted” and “sonship” and “co-heir” to describe the relationship between man and God. As a “child”, I became a full heir to our Father’s estate. I gain privileges and responsibilities of a “child” in God’s family. One of those privileges is being led by the Holy Spirit. I may sometimes feel like I do not belong as a part of the family, but the Holy Spirit stands as my witness that I do. His presence reminds me of who I am and encourages me with Your love. I no longer have to cringe and be fearful as an outsider … instead I am a “Child of God.” Because of my “adoption”, I am able to share in the great treasures as a “co-heir.” Among the many gifts of my “sonship” I am able to have a personal relationship with You, receive forgiveness for my sins, live with hope, possess eternal life and receive encouragement when things get tough. What a privilege it is to be Yours.
There is also a price that comes with identifying with You. The price usually comes in the form of economic and social persecution. To live as You did … serving others, giving up my own rights, resisting pressure to conform to the world … always comes with a price. Nothing, however, that I go through can compare with what You suffered for me. Sin has caused everyone to lose what was intended for them in the Garden. So, the world, to this day has been subject to frustration and bondage and cannot fulfill Your intended purpose. I see a world deteriorating before my eyes and spiritually infected by sin … and I feel so helpless to stop it. However, there is no reason to become pessimistic because my hope is in You. You have called me into the world to help heal bodies and souls and fight the effects of sin in the world around me. I know You will provide me with all of the tools I need to be a success.
It is natural for me to trust my parents, even though they sometimes failed to keep their promises. You, on the other hand, never make promises You will not keep. The problem I face is that Your plan for my life may take more time to develop than I expect. Rather than acting impatiently for Your will to unfold, I must replace it with reflections in Your goodness and wisdom. There are aspects of Your work in my life … past, present and future. When I was saved I was given a new life and hope for the future (past). I am walking in the many benefits of being a “child” (present). And there are benefits and blessings to be received when Your new Kingdom is established when You return a second time (future). I look forward with hope and trust that You will continue Your work in me to become more like You. And it’s in Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN!!
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purposes.