“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs — heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” (Romans 8:16-17)
When our favorite sports team wins, we say, “We won!” What do you mean “we”? You weren’t on the field. You didn’t get tackled. You didn’t throw or kick the ball. You didn’t even score a single goal. What do you mean “we” won? You mean that because the team you support and identify with won, you won too. There’s an important spiritual truth here for you as the redeemed child of God. When Jesus died, you died with Him. When Jesus arose, you arose with Him to “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). The difference between you and the team that won is that you will never actually be part of it.
But when Jesus won at the cross and you accepted Him as your Savior, God positioned you “in Christ”. Today He sees you clothed in the righteousness of Christ (see 2 Corinthians 5:21). Paul explains it this way: “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs — heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.” Did you get that? As a redeemed child of God, you are an “heir” of everything your heavenly Father owns.
And it gets better; you’re also “a joint heir with Christ”, meaning that whatever Jesus is entitled to, you are also entitled to. When you understand this truth and begin to walk according to it, you start to identify and claim the blessings God has promised you in His Word. These blessings include such things as grace, forgiveness, healing, provision, guidance, strength, etc. Your identity in Christ entitles you to all these things.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank you for “having me be on Your Team”. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
