Read: Romans 8:12-18
The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 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. (vv. 16-17)
After a major storm has blown through, a damage assessment is needed. Things like missing shingles and erosion are easy to spot, but weakened roof trusses or a compromised foundation take deeper investigation and are more critical to address.
When we have major changes in our lives, we need to do an assessment too, to see how this storm has changed our lives. Sometimes these changes can feel as destabilizing as a compromised foundation. If you’ve based your identity on being married, being a parent, the job you do, or anything else, when these things change it’s difficult to adjust. You may even find yourself asking “Who am I?”
Today’s reading gives us an answer that never has to change. If you’ve received Christ as your Savior and given him your life, you’re so much more than the roles in life you fulfill. If you have been adopted into the family of God, then you are a child of God (1 John 3:1). That is your identity! As his children, we are fellow heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17). And that inheritance is eternity spent with our Heavenly Father (1 Peter 1:4).
These truths never change no matter what gets thrown at us or wrenched away from us by storms in this life.
As you pray, know that when God looks at you, he sees you as his cherished child with a unique purpose.
About the Author
Donna M. Harold is retired from a career in accounting and consulting and lives in Tampa, Florida, with her husband and two cats. She serves as treasurer for her church, creates and facilitates Bible studies, and enjoys writing, mosaicking, and quilting.
