We know a Christian family where the wife was previously married and had two small boys. The father of these boys passed away, and like all children, they needed the love, acceptance, and nurturing of a father. When the mother remarried, her new husband adopted these boys, giving them his name. However, he frequently physically and verbally abused these boys. When new children were added to the family, the husband, in particular, showed blatantly obvious favoritism to his own children. One can only imagine the unfulfilled longing these boys had throughout the years. A boy needs more than a man’s name to feel loved and accepted. He needs constant demonstrations of love.

The Apostle John gave a beautiful description of what it is like to be a child of God. He wrote: “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God…” (I John 3:1). Notice that John emphasized a new relationship with the Lord for these Jews. No longer did he refer to them as “the children of Israel” as in the Old Testament. Instead, he referred to them as “sons of God.” This title implies a genuine acceptance, and inclusion into, a family and a more mature standing. Moreover, each member is reassured that God the Father loves them in a deeper sense than can be put into human words. He emphatically proved this when “God commendeth [or demonstrated] His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). A proper father yearns for an ongoing and growing relationship with his children. He will also constantly stand ready to help when needed. The Lord confirmed to these saints that He is always accessible and invited them to “…come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). A confidence this kind of healthy relationship with God encourages each saint to “purifieth himself” (vs. 3), in order that one might be more “like Him” (vs. 2) even prior to eternity.

Believers today are also blessed to have a similar, loving relationship with God that gives us a satisfying sense of security. Galatians 4:6 states: “And because ye are sons, God hath set forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.” Rejoice in your relationship with God, that He loves, accepts, and is always ready to help you.