The Daily Devotional
Monday, January 1, 2024
Embracing Our New Identity in Christ
Monday, January 1, 2024
Embracing Our New Identity in Christ
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!
1 John 3:1a (NIV)
Reflection
"I am transformed; I'm not the person I used to be." These were the profound words of Jim's son, Geoffrey, conveyed to a group of students at an assembly, illustrating the profound change God has enacted in his life. Once bound by heroin addiction, Geoffrey's view of himself was once marred by his transgressions and errors. Now, he recognizes himself as a beloved child of God.
The Holy Scriptures provide this comforting promise: "In Christ, a person is transformed into a new being: the former self is gone, and a new existence begins!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). No matter who we were or what we did before, through our faith in Jesus and embracing the salvation He offers, we experience a rebirth. Since the days of Eden, our sins have created a divide between us and God. However, in Christ, God has "brought us back to Himself," graciously overlooking our past wrongdoings (vv. 18–19). As His valued children (1 John 3:1–2), we undergo a process of cleansing and rebirth, being reshaped in the likeness of His Son.
Reflecting on the deep significance of 1 John 3:1, we are encouraged to recognize the remarkable truth of our renewed identity in Jesus. This verse talks about more than a remote, formal tie with God; it speaks of a close, family connection. We are named "children of God," a designation that implies profound love, acceptance, and a journey of change.
The Depth of Divine Love
Consider the phrase "great love the Father has lavished on us." This isn't a measured, reserved affection but a love that is extravagant and freely given. It's a love that knows no bounds and spares no expense. This love is best understood at the cross where Jesus, in His willingness to die for us, showed the ultimate expression of God's love. Through His sacrifice, we are cleansed, redeemed, and given a new identity.
Children of God—A New Identity
Being called a child of God means more than just a title; it's an entire identity shift. Once, we were defined by our sins, failures, and the world's labels. But now, in Christ, we are defined by God's love and righteousness. This new identity releases us from the chains of our past and the world's expectations. It invites us to see ourselves through God's eyes—as loved, accepted, and valued members of His family.
Living Out Our New Identity
Embracing our identity as children of God means letting this truth shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships. It's about living out the reality of God's love in our everyday lives. As His children, we are called to reflect His love to others, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to spread the hope of this new identity to everyone we meet.
Conclusion
Geoffrey's journey from heroin addiction to a renewed sense of self as a child of God stands as a poignant illustration of profound transformation and redemption. His story is not merely about changing habits but about a deep spiritual renewal, rooted in his faith in Jesus and the grace he found. As we approach New Year's Day, let's draw inspiration from Geoffrey's experience to embrace our renewed identities and purposes, centering our lives on Jesus Christ. His story is a vivid reminder of how the transformative love and grace offered through Christ can not only reshape our own lives but also serve as a beacon of hope and renewal for others. This account is a testament to the broader Christian beliefs in salvation, redemption, and the life-changing power of divine love and grace.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible love You've lavished on us, allowing us to be called Your children. Help us to fully grasp what this means and to live out this new identity every day. May we reflect Your love and grace to those around us, and may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of being Your children. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Reflection Questions
1. How does understanding your identity as a child of God change the way you see yourself and others?
"I am transformed; I'm not the person I used to be." These were the profound words of Jim's son, Geoffrey, conveyed to a group of students at an assembly, illustrating the profound change God has enacted in his life. Once bound by heroin addiction, Geoffrey's view of himself was once marred by his transgressions and errors. Now, he recognizes himself as a beloved child of God.
The Holy Scriptures provide this comforting promise: "In Christ, a person is transformed into a new being: the former self is gone, and a new existence begins!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). No matter who we were or what we did before, through our faith in Jesus and embracing the salvation He offers, we experience a rebirth. Since the days of Eden, our sins have created a divide between us and God. However, in Christ, God has "brought us back to Himself," graciously overlooking our past wrongdoings (vv. 18–19). As His valued children (1 John 3:1–2), we undergo a process of cleansing and rebirth, being reshaped in the likeness of His Son.
Reflecting on the deep significance of 1 John 3:1, we are encouraged to recognize the remarkable truth of our renewed identity in Jesus. This verse talks about more than a remote, formal tie with God; it speaks of a close, family connection. We are named "children of God," a designation that implies profound love, acceptance, and a journey of change.
The Depth of Divine Love
Consider the phrase "great love the Father has lavished on us." This isn't a measured, reserved affection but a love that is extravagant and freely given. It's a love that knows no bounds and spares no expense. This love is best understood at the cross where Jesus, in His willingness to die for us, showed the ultimate expression of God's love. Through His sacrifice, we are cleansed, redeemed, and given a new identity.
Children of God—A New Identity
Being called a child of God means more than just a title; it's an entire identity shift. Once, we were defined by our sins, failures, and the world's labels. But now, in Christ, we are defined by God's love and righteousness. This new identity releases us from the chains of our past and the world's expectations. It invites us to see ourselves through God's eyes—as loved, accepted, and valued members of His family.
Living Out Our New Identity
Embracing our identity as children of God means letting this truth shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships. It's about living out the reality of God's love in our everyday lives. As His children, we are called to reflect His love to others, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to spread the hope of this new identity to everyone we meet.
Conclusion
Geoffrey's journey from heroin addiction to a renewed sense of self as a child of God stands as a poignant illustration of profound transformation and redemption. His story is not merely about changing habits but about a deep spiritual renewal, rooted in his faith in Jesus and the grace he found. As we approach New Year's Day, let's draw inspiration from Geoffrey's experience to embrace our renewed identities and purposes, centering our lives on Jesus Christ. His story is a vivid reminder of how the transformative love and grace offered through Christ can not only reshape our own lives but also serve as a beacon of hope and renewal for others. This account is a testament to the broader Christian beliefs in salvation, redemption, and the life-changing power of divine love and grace.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible love You've lavished on us, allowing us to be called Your children. Help us to fully grasp what this means and to live out this new identity every day. May we reflect Your love and grace to those around us, and may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of being Your children. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Reflection Questions
1. How does understanding your identity as a child of God change the way you see yourself and others?
2. What are some ways you can live out your new identity in your daily life?
3. How can you remind yourself of your true identity when faced with challenges or temptations?
As you ponder these questions and the truth of 1 John 3:1, may you find renewed strength and joy in the reality of your new identity in Jesus. You are a beloved child of God, and that changes everything.
----------------------------
As you ponder these questions and the truth of 1 John 3:1, may you find renewed strength and joy in the reality of your new identity in Jesus. You are a beloved child of God, and that changes everything.
----------------------------
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM ichthus-dnm.org
The Bible texts are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®
Click on the image to delve into the uplifting and soul-stirring devotional crafted by Kenny Sallee, ThM…
Click on the image to delve into the uplifting and soul-stirring devotional crafted by Kenny Sallee, ThM…
No comments:
Post a Comment