I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything, but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. Galatians 4:1-7
For those whom He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, in order that He might be the firstborn among many brothers. Romans 8:29
Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will He spare you. Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in His kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off. And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again. For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree. Romans 11:19-24
How we see our identity – will determine so much of how and where our enemies attack us. What lies and deceptions will they perpetrate to twist the actual truth so that we will believe them? In the spiritual realms our ‘mark’ shines clear as to whose we are. Who do you say that you belong to? Whose child are you? Who is your Father? How do you know who your Father is? These questions determine your destination. What Source are you drawing from? Whom do you believe? The questions about our identity are at the root of our very soul. What springs forth from that root? Has the Holy Spirit told you who you are? Do you believe Him?
We are like that child in the first listed scripture above in this life. This life is the interview for the job. We must be trained and learn as to the right ways and will of our Father. So that eventually we can rule and reign with Him in … righteousness. This is NOT a quick process but a lifelong one. This side of heaven is the refining. Here we learn to submit to our Teacher. And who have you placed as your teacher over you? Who did Jesus send to us to teach us?
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. John 14:26
Are you being taught by the Holy Spirit? Can you discern Him within you? Have you learned to hear Him through any source He might use? Or does your pride and stubbornness block your ears from hearing? Does your religious upbringing hinder your growth in Him?
What do you think marks a person as a true child of the Father? What are the character traits that they carry? Are they filled with the fruit of the Spirit? Are they obedient to their Father’s will?
Do you need to reread the story of the prodigal son? (Luke 15:11-32)
Listen to the Holy Spirit. Learn the lessons He has for you.