A Child of the King

“He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:11-12 (NIV) Jesus never promised us an easy path. In fact, He told us that we would have trials and troubles while on planet earth. Paul encouraged the Roman church with these words: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed” Romans 8:18-19 (NIV). I wonder if there will be some surprises as the sons of God are revealed. That group of God’s children will include some from prisons and homeless shelters. It will include those too poor to keep up with society’s standards. One of my favorite events in the Olympics is when the athletes enter the arena. They have trained; they have overcome physical and emotional obstacles. What will God’s reveal look like? I’m sure it will be glorious! Our broken world provides a training ground for the King’s children. Our Father trains His children to listen to His heart and reign like He reigns. The King does not want willful, self-centered children reigning in arrogance and pride. His enemy acts like that. Instead, He teaches His children kindness, gentleness, and patience. He teaches redemption rather than destruction. God is love, not violence and hate. The King speaks only the truth; there are no lies in Him, and He wants His children to speak truth also. One day the training will be over. God’s children will be joint heirs with Christ. The Bible says we will rule and reign with Him. So, “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” Hebrews 12:1b (NIV). Dear Lord, open our spiritual eyes through Your Word and Your Spirit so that we will see to walk with Christ. — Sue Carlisle   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org