Adopted Into God’s Family
There’s a massive difference between being invited to work for someone and being welcomed into their family. An employee might get paid, but a child gets embraced. An employee has duties; a child has an inheritance.
Sadly, many of us treat our relationship with God like a job.
We try to do “good enough” to earn His approval. We think if we mess up, we’re going to get fired. But 1 John 3:1 turns this idea upside down: You’re not just part of God’s workforce—you’re part of His family.
This verse doesn’t start with rules—it starts with love. Lavish love. A kind of love that goes beyond “just enough.” It’s not about checking boxes or performing tasks. It’s about identity. Belonging. Adoption.
I don’t know about you, but to me, adoption is a powerful word! It means that someone chose you on purpose. They didn’t have to love you, they wanted to.
That means that:
- You don’t have to prove your worth—you already have it.
- You don’t have to fear rejection—you’re already accepted.
- You don’t have to strive to be noticed—you’re already seen.
And just like any good father, God doesn’t leave His children on their own. He provides, protects, disciplines, and delights in them. He’s not just a distant deity—He’s Abba, your heavenly Dad.
Today’s Bible Verse
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!”
1 John 3:1 (NIV)
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Understanding Today’s Verse
Let’s break down 1 John 3:1:
- “See what great love the Father has lavished on us…”
This love is not average—it’s great. And it’s not sparingly given—it’s lavished. That means poured out, overflowing, not held back. - “…that we should be called children of God!”
This is our identity. Not sinners trying to be good. Not outsiders hoping to get in. But children—known, wanted, and fully embraced. - “And that is what we are!”
John doubles down here. He wants to make sure you get it. This isn’t wishful thinking—it’s reality. If you’ve trusted in Christ, this is who you are.
Faith in Action
Journaling Prompts To Dig Deeper
Affirmation
I am not a guest in God’s house, I am family!
Closing Prayer
Father,
Thank You for loving me with a love that adopts and secures me. Thank You that I’m not Your employee, but Your child. Help me live like I truly belong to You—free, loved, and at home in Your heart. When I feel unworthy, remind me of who I am in You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
