The Family Name

Ephesians 1:4 (NLT) —

‘Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.’

Did you ever watch that old show Dynasty? (Or the newer remake) It’s one of those shows with a big emphasis on family legacy and upholding the family name. My brother, the only boy amongst my siblings, often jokes that he needs to take care to behave as he is the one to carry on the Obakin name.

Names are important. They link us, give us ownership and a sense of belonging. I belong to the Obakin family and if I were to do something in the public eye, it’s not just my name up for scrutiny but the name of my family. I am seen as a representative of the Obakins.

God’s response in 2 Chronicles is directed to ‘His people that are called by his name’. That includes me and you. Here are two important verses for you:

‘Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith.’  (Galatians 3:14)

‘-...you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him ‘Abba, Father.’ For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.’   (Romans 8:15-17)

The Israelites, descendants of Abraham, knew themselves to be God’s people but now through Jesus, we too, who have accepted his salvation, are included in Abraham’s promise and are his children and heirs. Through Jesus we receive the Holy Spirit who confirms that we belong to Christ and are adopted into the family of God.

Continuing yesterday's theme - our family membership is why it is important to live a life of repentance. Repentance puts us right with God, our father, and enables us to be a true representative of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for adopting me into your family, the best family that I could be a member of. Teach me how to represent your kingdom in the right way.