The Holy Spirit is called “the Spirit of adoption.” The word adoption in the New Testament
means “being placed as an adult son.” We come into God’s family by birth. But the instant
we are born into the family, God adopts us and gives us the position of an adult son.
A baby cannot walk, speak, make decisions, or draw on the family wealth. But the believer
can do all of these the instant he is born again.
He can walk and be “led of the Spirit.” The verb here means “willingly led.” We yield to the
Spirit, and He guides us by His Word day by day. We are not under bondage of Law and
afraid to act; we have the liberty of the Spirit and are free to follow Christ.
The believer can also speak; “We cry, Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15). Would it not be
amazing if a newborn baby looked up and greeted his father? First, the Spirit in us says,
“Abba, Father” (Galatians 4:6); then we say it to God. Abba means “papa”—a term of
endearment.
Verse for today: “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear, but ye have
received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, ‘Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15).
Also: Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 4:6; Hebrews 2:10-15.
Action assignment: List on a piece of paper what it means to you to be adopted into God’s
family. Go over the list as you thank God for these blessings.
WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in