But to all who believed [Jesus, the Word] and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn — not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.
Key Thought
Not everyone rejected Jesus. In fact, everyone who believed in him and accepted him was given an incredible gift: They were made children of God! The same is still true for us who believe and accept Jesus. This special gift is something that God alone can give. It is also something about which both Jesus and our author John will have more to say. Today, however, think about what it means to be God’s child! Our Father paints the sunrise and displays his artistry again at sunset. He set the boundaries of the universe, which we cannot begin to see. He is the greatest Father anyone could ever have, and he chose us to be his children! Our adoption into the Father’s family is something God did for us to include us as his children. We couldn’t make ourselves part of God’s family any more than children can accomplish their own birth or their adoption. We are God’s children because of his love and grace and Jesus’ sacrifice. In fact, Jesus came as the Father’s Word of grace so we can be children of God, born from above!
Today’s Prayer
Expand my heart, O God, so that I can truly show my love and appreciation to you for adopting me into your family. Open my mind, dear Father, so that I can understand your grace and mercy given me through Jesus. I praise you and thank you for making me your child! In the name of my brother and Savior, Jesus Christ, my Lord, I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
John 3:3-7Acts 16:30-331 John 5:1Ⓒ 1996-2022 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.