Your Status in the Kingdom: You Are a Child of God

We live in a world obsessed with status.

From social media followers to zip codes, clothing brands to career titles—we often tie our worth to what we have or what we do. But Romans 8 tells us something far more meaningful about our identity:

“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” (Romans 8:14)

That’s it. That’s the most important title you’ll ever have:

Child of God.

Not your job title.

Not your family background.

Not your bank account.

If you are in Christ, your identity is secure. You’ve been adopted into God's family.

How Do I Know I'm Being Led by the Spirit?

Paul brings our focus back to the Holy Spirit. When you’re led by the Spirit, several things start showing up in your life:

1. You Submit to God’s Word

The Spirit will never lead you to contradict God’s truth.

If what you're "feeling led" to do goes against Scripture, it's not the Holy Spirit. It’s something else.

2. You Bear His Fruit

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5)

These things should be growing in your life.

3. You Rely on His Wisdom

In a world where we Google everything (or ask ChatGPT 😄), God's Spirit is still the ultimate guide.

James tells us to ask for wisdom—and God will give it generously.

4. You Operate in His Gifts

The Holy Spirit gives gifts for building up the church—not building your own platform.

You use your time, resources, and talents to point people to Jesus.

You Are Adopted—Not a Slave

“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship.” (Romans 8:15)

If you’ve accepted Christ, you are not a slave to fear or sin.

You’re not trying to earn God's love—you already have it.

What Does Adoption Mean in the Kingdom?

In ancient Rome, adoption was a legal declaration.

A debt-ridden servant could be adopted into a new family and completely freed from their past.

Sound familiar?

We inherited a debt through sin—passed down since Adam.

But Jesus stepped in and paid the price.

Now the Judge (God) declares: "You're not just free. You’re family."

It starts in a courtroom and ends in a family room.

We cry out, “Abba, Father.”

Not just God. Not just Lord. But Dad.

What Does That Mean for Us?

1. We’re Heirs with Christ

“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ...” (Romans 8:17)

Everything that belongs to Jesus… also belongs to us.

Not just peace. Not just hope. But eternity with God.

2. We Will Suffer—but We Will Also Share His Glory

Life won't always be easy. But we suffer with purpose.

Every pain points to a greater hope.

Are You Living Like a Child or an Orphan?

There’s a big difference:

Orphan Spirit Spirit of Adoption

Hides when they mess up Runs to the Father when they mess up

Hoards and fears lack Trusts that God provides

Strives for love Rests in love

Don’t live like an orphan when you've been adopted by the King.

A Final Word: You Are Chosen

“He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ…” (Ephesians 1:4–5)

God saw you.

God wanted you.

God chose you.

And through Jesus, He adopted you—forever.

A Moment to Pray

Let this be your prayer today:

"Father, I am Yours. I’m not a slave to fear—I’m Your child. Thank You for choosing me. Lead me by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Whether you're just learning about Jesus or have been following Him for years, Romans 8 reminds us of this unshakable truth:

You are loved.

You are chosen.

You are His.