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Adopted

 

Romans 8:15 - For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 

Every now and then, we see these encouraging headlines: “Couple adopts Abandoned Baby,” “Family Takes in Handicapped Youth,” “Needy Child Finds Home.” Such stories are heartwarming reminders that some children who have no family can find a place to belong.

The Apostle Paul uses the illustration of adoption to explain how we are drawn into the family of God. We are alone, bound in sin, until we trust Christ and are welcomed into His family. Because of His love and grace, we are adopted as His own children (Ephesians 1:5).

In the first century, an adopted son was chosen by his father to carry on the family name and inherit the estate. There was nothing inferior about this son. In fact, Bible scholar F.F. Bruce suggests that because of the father’s intentional choice, the adopted son “might well enjoy the father’s affection more fully and reproduce the fathers character more worthily.”

Our place in God’s family gives us great rights and privileges, but it also gives us responsibilities. Since your Heavenly Father has welcomed you into His eternal family, live up to that privilege by asking Him to reproduce His character in your life.

From – “Walking With God” by David Jeremiah