“For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 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;15-17 (NIV)
No condemnation in Christ. Set free from bondage of sin and death. God’s sacrifice for sin enabled his righteous requirements to be fulfilled in us. What great theological concepts!
On the practical, everyday side of life is the believer’s desires. Those who obey Christ fix their desires in accord with the Spirit. Those who follow their own sinful nature fix their desires in accord with what that nature desires. This passage is a biblical “how-to” for identifying who we are following. Paul gives further clarification in verses 6-14.
Those who live in accord with the Holy Spirit are children of God. Since we are his children, we are not scared of God. We can approach him intimately as children who are approaching their father. Think about it: He doesn’t condemn you. He welcomes you. You are not his slave. You are his child. Christ’s righteousness covers you. And you can come to him as boldly as a little child comes to a father! Who wouldn’t want that?
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. We are humbled by your fatherly love. We are grateful beyond words. May we never disappoint you. This I pray in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his grace and live to his glory,