Part of the family of God

Now, if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory. ((Romans 8:17)

A heartwarming story circulated across the internet last week and served as a reminder of the importance of family. 

In December 2018, then 11-year-old Carter Wyles received the best Christmas gift anyone could ever obtain. Carter had been living with his aunt, uncle, and cousins due to a difficult situation in his biological home. While surrounded by his loved ones, the pre-teen was handed one final gift box to open. Inside the package, Carter found a photo of his extended family along with a note that would change his life forever.

 “This is our most recent picture of our family,” Carter read out loud. “All of us would love for you to be in the next picture and to be part of our family… would you like to be a Kiphart and be our son and brother?”

As his new family looked on, Carter nodded his head and choked back tears as his former aunt and soon-to-be adopted mother hugged him. “I want to thank you so much,” Carter cried. 

While watching this video, I was struck by how blessed we should all feel when we are adopted into the family of God. No matter what we’ve ever done or who our earthly family is, when we accept Jesus into our hearts, we become part of the family of God – with full rights to call our Creator, Abba Father. 

The Apostle Paul tells us in Galatians 4:6-7, “Because you are His sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’ So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.”

Imagine all the implications of being a child of God. The Author of all Creation promised us that He will always take care of us. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” (Psalm 32:8)

God will assist us during difficult times. “For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, ‘Fear not, I am the one who helps you.'” ( Isaiah 41:13)

Our heavenly Father will stay with us, holding us when we are afraid. “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

God will protect us, as only He can do. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” (Isaiah 43:2) 

To be accepted into God’s family, all we have to do is believe that Jesus is God’s Son and accept Him as our Savior. “Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12)

We are given a divine inheritance in return for our acceptance, just waiting for us in heaven. “Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God, and they will be my children.” (Revelation 21:7)

When was the last time you truly celebrated your adoption into the family of God? Rejoice in your salvation! Celebrate the inheritance that is already yours and share the joy of your salvation with everyone you meet. 

You are a part of the family of God. Never forget that. No more extraordinary gift could ever be received.