The Word - Jan. 10, 2007 - (From the Archives)

"In love [God] predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind attention of His will" (Ephesians 1: 4,5).

Moses told Israel that God didn't choose them because of their great numbers or any inherent goodness they had, but as an expression of God's sovereign will and sacrificial love (Deut. 7:7-8). That is true of you if you are a Christian. The Greek word translated "love" in verse 4 speaks, not of emotional or sentimental love, but of love that seeks God's best for others at any cost. It is marked by sacrifice rather than selfishness, giving rather than receiving. It seeks to forgive rather than condemn, to dismiss all offenses rather than count them.

Such love is epitomized in God Himself, who loved you so much that He sacrificed His Son on your behalf, who willingly laid down His own life for you. If you are a born again child of God, you have received a spirit of adoption and can address Him as "Abba Father"! Your heavenly Father delights in your praise and glories in your obedience. May you be a faithful child. Live out your royal heritage. Seek His wisdom in all you do. Go to His Word and follow His counsel, and demonstrate His love to others in every way!