When the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.-Galatians 4:4-5
Isn’t it incredible how the birth of one could bring redemption to all mankind? Paul’s letter to the Galatians paints a picture that goes beyond history into the heart of our identity. He compares the condition of humanity before Christ to that of an heir who is still a child.
Though the child is the rightful owner of the inheritance, he lives no differently from a servant until the appointed time comes. Authority, freedom, and identity are all withheld until maturity arrives.
This analogy is profound. Humanity, before Christ, lived under the weight of the law — aware of God’s standard yet unable to fully live up to it. In that place, we were bound, waiting for redemption. But at just the right time, God fulfilled His plan.
Christ entered the world, born of a woman, born under the same law that held mankind captive, so that He could free us from it. He didn’t come as a distant deliverer, but as one who experienced humanity in every way, yet without sin.
Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, we are no longer slaves to sin or bound by the condemnation of the law. Instead, we are brought into God’s family.
Paul uses the word adoption – a word full of hope, belonging, and permanence. Adoption in the biblical context signifies a legal, unshakeable placement into a family with full rights to inheritance. This means we are not merely servants trying to please a distant master, but beloved children with the privilege of calling God our Father.
This truth is life-changing. If we truly understand that we are heirs with Christ, it transforms the way we see ourselves and the way we live.
Fear gives way to confidence. Striving gives way to resting in grace. Hopelessness gives way to a glorious future, because our identity is no longer defined by failure, guilt, or the standards of this world. Instead, it is defined by the Father who has called us His own.
The beauty of redemption is not only that we are freed from something, but that we are freed for something. We are redeemed to walk in intimacy with God, to live out His purpose, and to reflect His glory on the earth. Every day becomes an opportunity to live as a son or daughter, not an orphan.
And yet, this truth also comes with responsibility. Just as an heir eventually matures to walk in the authority and stewardship of their inheritance, so must we grow in our faith. Living as children of God means choosing righteousness, walking in obedience, and letting His Spirit lead us daily.
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Declaration
Today, I declare that I am no longer a slave to sin or fear. I am a child of God, redeemed through the blood of Jesus, and adopted into His eternal family. I walk in the freedom, authority, and inheritance that Christ has secured for me. My life will bring glory to my Father in heaven.
Self-Reflection Questions
- Do I truly see myself as a child of God, or do I still live as though I am a servant trying to earn His approval?
- In what areas of my life am I still living under the weight of guilt, shame, or fear rather than walking in my identity as God’s heir?
- How can I reflect my adoption into God’s family in the way I treat others this week?
- Am I growing into maturity, walking in the responsibility of my inheritance, or am I holding back in fear?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for sending Your Son at the appointed time to redeem me from the bondage of sin and the weight of the law. Thank You that I am no longer a stranger or servant, but Your beloved child, adopted into Your family with full inheritance through Christ.
Forgive me, Lord, for the moments when I forget who I am in You, when I allow fear, doubt, or guilt to define me instead of Your Word. Wash me again in the truth of Your love. Remind me daily that I am chosen, redeemed, and dearly loved.
Help me, Holy Spirit, to live out my identity as Your child. Teach me to walk in freedom and righteousness. Give me the courage to step into the authority You have given me as an heir with Christ. Let my life be a testimony of Your grace and redemption.
Lord, may I bring honour to Your name in every thought, word, and action. And may my heart remain grateful, never taking for granted the incredible gift of sonship You have given me.
In Jesus’ mighty name,
Amen.
