In what ways can we live as God's children, as stated in Galatians 4:5? Our Adoption Stated “to redeem those under the Law, that we might receive our adoption as sons.” – Galatians 4:5 Because Jesus redeemed us, we now belong to the household of God. Scripture treats this adoption as literal, present-tense reality, shaping every aspect of daily life. Living Out the Family Freedom • Refuse the old slavery – Galatians 4:7: “So you are no longer a slave, but a son.” – Stand forgiven, rejecting condemnation and legalism. • Approach God with childlike confidence – Romans 8:15: “you received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, ‘Abba, Father!’” – Pray openly, trust fully, knowing the Father delights to hear. Walking in the Spirit • Follow the inner leading of the Spirit rather than fleshly impulses – Galatians 5:16: “walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” • Let the Spirit produce family likeness—love, joy, peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22-23). Imitating the Father’s Character • Ephesians 5:1-2: “Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children, and walk in love.” • 1 Peter 1:14-16 calls us to holiness because our Father is holy. Practical outworking: forgive quickly, tell the truth, pursue purity, show mercy. Enjoying and Guarding the Inheritance • Galatians 4:7: “God has made you also an heir.” • Live with eternal perspective—invest in kingdom work, store treasures in heaven, endure suffering with hope (Romans 8:17-18). Loving the Household • 1 John 3:1: “that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” • Treat fellow believers as brothers and sisters: – Meet practical needs (Acts 4:32). – Bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). – Refuse rivalry or favoritism (James 2:1). Shining the Family Name to the World • Philippians 2:15: “children of God… shine as lights in the world.” • 2 Corinthians 5:20: “we are ambassadors for Christ.” – Share the Gospel, demonstrate integrity at work, practice sacrificial service; every action reflects the Father. Daily Checklist for God’s Children ▪ Begin the day acknowledging, “Father, I belong to You.” ▪ Read Scripture, letting the Spirit speak family values into your heart. ▪ Choose grace over legalism and love over selfishness. ▪ Keep short accounts—confess sin quickly, accept His cleansing. ▪ Look for ways to bless other family members and invite outsiders to join. |
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