February 17 – The Children of God

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. John 1:12 (KJV).

How did men treat Christ when He came? “He came unto his own, and his own received him not” (John 1:11). And so it is now. This history repeats itself and will do so again before the Lord returns in the clouds of heaven. The deceptions of Satan will fall upon those who dwell on the Earth.

“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12). After preparing this world as a dwelling place for humanity, God looked upon it and rejoiced, declaring it very good. Likewise, He will favorably accept the transformation of those who, having received Christ as their Savior, have been given power to become the children of God, and in this, He rejoices.

The first chapter of Colossians reveals the heights we have the privilege of reaching. We can be “filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding,” “that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:9-14).

Is there not enough suffering in this sin-wounded, sin-ruined Earth to move us to consecrate ourselves to proclaiming the message that “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16)? The Earth was walked upon by the Son of God. He came to bring light and life to humanity, to free them from the bondage of sin. He will come again in power and great glory to receive unto Himself those who, during their life here, have followed in His steps.