Romans 8:12–17 (ESV) – 12 So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

Believers have not only been forgiven, they are adopted as children of God! We have been brought into the family and God’s love is lavished upon us. We read here that we are fellow heirs with Christ.

Behold what manner of love the Father has given unto us! That we should be called the sons of God!

How do we know that we are the children of God? The Holy Spirit bears witness to us that we are his. We know his presence and work in our lives. He convicts us of sin and encourages us when we are in need. The Spirit calls to mind the truths of Scripture and opens our eyes to recognize God’s truth. We know we are God’s because his Spirit is constantly with us reminding us that we are his. Praise the Lord!

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