Surprise, you’re adopted. “The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, ‘Abba Father.’” (Romans 8:15)
I’ve learned a couple of things from talking with those who’ve been adopted. One, they wanted to know why their parents didn’t want them. And two, they worked hard to make sure their adoptive parents would keep them.
This makes what Paul wrote in the above passage so insightful. We don’t have to fear our Father giving us back to the orphanage called this world if we fail. We are safe and secure in the warmth of His love.
He loved us when we couldn’t love Him and couldn’t do anything right. In fact, He wanted us as His children so badly that He sent His own Son to get us from that orphanage. Jesus did and does all the work to make and keep us God’s children. It’s on Him, not us!
Fight your enemy’s lies that make you feel unwanted or have to be God’s workhorse with this truth – you’re adopted! Relax and enjoy your relationship with your Father! You don’t have to earn something that you already have – love and security.
“S”et Free Nowww
More Than A Sunday Faith
PC, how is it all on Jesus if we use our free will to stay in the orphanage in the first place?
Great question, one that has people on both sides of the issue. Here is the point I was making from my understanding of Scripture.
The context of the statement was, “to make and keep us God’s children.” The point of the story is to think that our works or lack of them could make our Father keep us as His children. If we don’t work hard enough, He just might give us back. Nope, faith and faith alone made us children of God. Faith in what? Jesus’ work for me, not mine for Him. This is what I was trying to say.
Also, it is my understanding that Scripture teaches that once I place my faith in Christ, the One at the orphanage waiting to pick me up, I’m His child forever. Once I make that freewill choice “nothing can separate me from the love of God” including my potentially bad choices. Why? Because Jesus is the author (took me out of the orphanage) and the finisher (keeps me in His family forever) of my faith, not me (Heb. 12:2). He will finish the job He started in me (Phil. 1:6).
Yes, I will be judged to how I lived on this planet (1 Cor. 3), but not as to my destination as God doesn’t ever give His children back.
Hope that helps.
Definitely – thanks!