Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

Introduction

As we dive into the deep truths found in Romans 8:14-16, we encounter a remarkable passage that speaks not merely of our relationship with God, but of our identity as His children. These verses remind us that “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’ The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” This scripture invites us into the depth of our sonship—the understanding that we belong to the family of God not through merit or works, but through the gracious act of adoption that Jesus secured for us.

Understanding Sonship

First, let’s unpack what it means to be sons and daughters of God. The term “sunship” or “sonship” may raise eyebrows in today’s culture, making some women feel excluded. However, in the biblical context, it encompasses all of humanity who approach God with faith. Thus, it’s not about gender but about our position in Christ. When we come to faith, Scripture assures us, we become His children. We can just as easily say “daughters of God,” for we all share equal access to our Heavenly Father.

The Love of Our Father

When reflecting on our identity as God’s children, I often pray, “Daddy God.” This phrase reveals a closeness and intimacy that transcends formality. He is not a distant deity watching from afar, but my loving Father, deeply involved in my life. Understanding this relationship transforms our faith journey. As followers of Christ, we have been brought into the family of God because of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. This act of selfless love opened the door to a new reality—our sonship.

Stepping into Freedom

One of the most liberating aspects of our sonship is the freedom from fear. Romans 8:15 tells us that we did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear but were adopted as His own. The moment we accept this identity as children of God, we are freed from the bondage of fear and death. The promise of eternal life begins now, not just after we leave this earth. There’s a significant shift in our lives when we grasp this truth. Death loses its grip over us because we are anchored in the hope of Christ’s resurrection.

Jesus: The Bridge to Fatherhood

The act of Jesus willingly laying down His life for us is the ultimate expression of love. In His sacrifice, we find reconciliation to our Father. We are no longer mere servants trying to earn favor by our actions. Our position is no longer defined by our performance but by our relationship with Him. When we are sons and daughters, we do not strive to earn God’s love; we already have it. Instead, we respond in grateful obedience because of our love for Him—this is where our motive changes.

The Identity Shift

It is essential to understand that our journey in faith is not about what we do to win God’s approval. This belief in “doing” stems from insecurity and a misunderstanding of our identity in Christ. Galatians 4:7 says, “Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.” When we believe and accept the completed work of the cross, we begin to recognize ourselves as accepted in the Beloved.
Sons and daughters know that they are accepted by their Father; they do not live in a constant state of trying to gain the approval of a master. This leads us to a place of vulnerability and authenticity before God. Our actions may stem from a heart of worship rather than from a place of obligation.

Overcoming Lies

It’s crucial to reject the negative perceptions the world may offer about our identity. In Hebrews 8:6-13, God reveals a new plan for humanity. Sin entered the world and marred our relationship with Him, but He acted with our restoration in mind. Through the blood of Jesus poured out on the cross, He established a new covenant—a relationship that transcends previous failures and establishes His mercy and grace as paramount.
Remember, God does not look at us through the lens of our flaws but instead through the lens of the precious blood that was shed for our salvation. The slate of sin has been wiped clean forever!

Embracing Our New Identity

We have to focus on how God sees us. It’s not about how you perceive yourself or how others view you. In 1 Peter 2:9, we are told that we are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. We need to embrace that identity. When you see yourself through God’s eyes, you begin to understand that you are fully loved, completely accepted, and profoundly valued.
Hear this: God is pleased with you—not because of what you have done or will do, but because He sees Christ in you. Remember, you are good enough for Jesus died for you. Reject any lie that suggests otherwise.

Living in Freedom

When we fully embrace our identity as children of God, our lives start to reflect that truth. We live in freedom rather than fear; our prayers shift from begging to conversations with our loving Father, “Daddy God.” This relationship allows us to turn to Him in every circumstance of life, seeking guidance, comfort, and support. Our devotion to Him evolves from obligation to adoration.
We begin to see the world through the lens of grace—recognizing that we are not perfect, but we serve a God who loves us in our imperfections and calls us to a higher place in Him.

Conclusion

Let’s focus on our identity as sons and daughters of God. We are not caught in the cycle of fear, nor are we slaves striving for acceptance. Embrace the truth that through faith, we are heirs, adopted into the family of God, empowered by the Spirit to live out our identity.
Dare to take a moment right now and say, “I am a child of God, fully accepted and loved.” As you meditate on this truth today, let it sink into the depths of your spirit. Walk in that freedom and let it transform every facet of your life.
Embrace your sonship—the life of a child of God. Notice how it fills you with peace and purpose, transforming your prayers, your actions, and most importantly, your heart.