Whose Kid Are You?

Daily Reading: Ephesians 1

Scripture Focus: In love he predestined us for adoption. (Ephesians 1.5)

Devotional Thought: I have friends who have pre-arranged three adoptions of babies yet to be born. In each situation, all the details were arranged, expenses paid, and the soon-to-be parents excitedly awaited the news that the baby had arrived. In all three cases, the babies were destined to become a part of their family, in the eyes of the law and in the depths of their hearts. In the first two instances, however, their hearts were broken with the news that the birth mother had had a change of heart. The third one was carried out as planned, and they brought their little baby girl home with great joy and love.

In love, each of the babies were destined to be theirs. But, only one became so. In love, each of them were chosen for adoption. But, only one was adopted. Why? There was another party involved in the decision. And, that party said, "No."

In love, God the Father "predestined us for adoption through Jesus Christ... according to the purpose of his will." But, just as it was with my friends, there is another party involved in the adoption. It is not until we have "believed in him" that we are "sealed with the promised Holy Spirit" (v. 13). It is not God's will "that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance" (2 Peter 3.9). Why is not everyone saved if that is God's will? The price has been paid and the offer has been made, but there is another party involved. And, as Paul wrote, "not everyone has faith" (2 Thessalonians 3.2).

Christmas is over. We have celebrated that God gave his Son. Now, "whosoever believes in him shall not perish", for "whosever will" may drink of the water of life” (Revelation 22).

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that you have chosen me to be holy and blameless before you. In love, you predestined me for adoption. I say yes to your offer of new life with a new family - the family of God. Amen!

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 147.1-11

1 Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting. 2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the outcasts of Israel. 3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. 4 He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names. 5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure. 6 The Lord lifts up the humble; he casts the wicked to the ground.

7 Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyre! 8 He covers the heavens with clouds; he prepares rain for the earth; he makes grass grow on the hills. 9 He gives to the beasts their food, and to the young ravens that cry. 10 His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the legs of a man, 11 but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.