Our Identity as God’s Children
“To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.”
Ephesians 1:6
Dear Friends,
It is indeed, an incredible footing for our mind to be reassured of that we, as Christians are, and always will be, one of God’s children. Its all too easy in this sinful world that we live in to become unsettled in our heart about our eternity. Especially when we consider our fleshly inclinations that, no matter how much we go to church and study the Bible, still seem to rear up their ugly head.
People who believe the Bible know that God condemns sin. People who believe God know that hell is a real place. It’s easy, then, to become fearful that as a Christian you might have to endure the wrath of God. Added to this fact, Satan is forever whispering in the ears of every believer accusatory remarks about behavior.
It is at these times, I believe, important to understand the difference between our standing and state.
It’s possible that my present state is not especially as holy or close to the Lord as it should be but my standing is forever settled – I am acceptable to God (Ephesians 1:6). In fact, God states I am one of His beloved.
The Father God has marked you as one of His own children. You are so loved by God that He sent His only begotten son to die on a cross so that you could have eternal life. My state may change but, thank God, my standing with Him never will!
Standing in His Mercy,
Pastor Tim