Child of God, or Too Good to be True?

My eyes were fixed on my calendar. It was full, but my life seemed a little empty. I wonder if you ever feel that way. The business of my life was grounded in good activities – the kind that would bring positive change. But deep down inside I think I was trying (unsuccessfully) to feel accepted, and maybe even loved. But there is an easier answer. For followers of Jesus, we are each called a child of God.

Is this promise even true? Could it be too good to be true?

How could God love me? 

Here’s what the Bible says about being a child of God.

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are.”

1 John 3:1 (NIV)

God loves me, and you, with a great love.

Our loving Creator hasn’t given us that love tentatively, or meagerly.

He has lavished it on us. Lavished causes me to think of over-the-top provision. It’s extravagant, beyond what I deserve or expect.

Named, Called, and Counted as a Child of God!

The Amplified translation adds:

“See what an incredible quality of love the Father has shown to us, that we would [be permitted to] be named and called and counted the children of God! And so we are!” 1 John 3:1a (AMP)

Being named is powerful. The warm feeling that comes when, unexpectedly, you are called by your name. Maybe when you are in a new job, or in a place where no one knows you. Suddenly you are recognized. This verse reminds me that God knows your name and mine!

Counted brings home the idea that we are seen and acknowledged. We matter – to the One who created everything. He loves us.

Part of this love is that we Jesus followers are called children of God.

Childish or Child-like?

Some people’s thoughts gravitate to the negative behaviors of children. For example, at times, children may focus mainly on their own needs. They may not want to share toys or food. And when thwarted they may have tantrums.

I’ve seen some children, and adults act like this, and I’m sure you have too. But I don’t think this is the meaning of the verse.  

I believe that being called a child of God allows us to bring some of the benefits of childhood to our relationship with Him.

It is an invitation to be child-like (as opposed to childish). I wonder what comes to your mind when you think of that term.

Here are some of my thoughts. Children typically have:

• A feeling of security. That trust their needs will be met.
• A sense of wonder about the unknown.
• A desire to know why.
• An uninhibited drive to ask questions when they don’t understand the situation. (Sometimes over and again! 😊)
• The joy of discovery when the answer makes sense.
• An ability and desire to draw close when they need comfort and assurance. And sometimes just to spend time with their parent.

I know this list may seem ideal. Many of us may not have had love or an environment, that has allowed these characteristics to blossom. But God’s love does, even when we are adults.

How Do We Become a Child of God?

Becoming a child of God is as simples as our choices.

First, we choose if we believe that us Jesus died to save from our sin. If we do, we have eternal life. We are followers of Jesus.

I think you will enjoy this video from We the Kingdom as you ponder that life-giving invitation.

The next choice to enter into God’s love. We accept his promise that we are His child, and enjoy our new position.

A child learns by experience – just like we do. They develop trust by spending time with their parents or caregivers. They may learn that they can ask questions and receive answers. This leads to a joy of discovery which leads to more questions.

The response of the adult is important in the development of the child. Sadly, it may be far from ideal.

But the great news is God’s response will always be for our good.

God won’t turn us away when we come to Him, wanting to find and spend time with Him.

” You draw near to those who call out to you,
    listening closely, especially when their hearts are true.” Psalm 145:18 (TPT)

(You might also find this blog post about trust helpful.)

It’s exciting to realize that my relationship with God will continue to deepen, as long as I choose to spend time with Him. The same will happen for you as well.

Scriptures to Help Us Enjoy Being a Child of God

As we learn more about God and see how He works our trust will grow.

Here are a few promises that help me:

He will give us what we need. We can depend on it!

” And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 (NLT)

He will never leave us.

” Those who know your name trust in you,
    for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.” Psalm 9:10

He will guide us.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
    do not depend on your own understanding.
⁶ Seek his will in all you do,
    and he will show you which path to take.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)

God wants to comfort us:

” He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” 2 Corinthians 1:4 (NLT)

Child of God: Truth or Too Good to be True?

So, back to my original question Child of God: is it truth or too good to be true?

After considering our verses and what I know to be true about God, I believe that it is truth. God sees each one of us as His child.

Although it may seem too good to be true, I believe we can trust God’s promises.

I am going to embrace my identity as a child of God more fully. There is nothing to prove, just a relationship to enjoy and explore.

I’m curious to know what new thoughts you have about being a child of God. I would love to hear in the comments.