This is Follow Jesus Radio, encouraging you to have faith in Jesus Christ and follow Him daily. The title of this devotional thought is: The Right to Become God's Child.
Our Scripture is John 1:12 (NLT): "But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God."
What wonderful news! The invitation to become a child of God is open to everyone. Jesus doesn't offer salvation only to a certain race, nationality, social class, or age group. The promise is for all who believe in Him and receive Him. Whether you're a man, a woman, or a child; rich or poor; religious or someone who has never been to church, Christ welcomes all who come to Him in faith.
Notice that John doesn't say we become God's children by earning it. We don't work our way into God's family. We simply believe in Jesus and receive Him as our Savior and Lord. Salvation is God's gracious gift, received by faith alone.
We see this so beautifully in the thief on the cross. As he hung beside Jesus, he had no opportunity to do good works or make up for his past. He simply turned to Jesus in faith and prayed, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom." Jesus answered, "Today you will be with Me in Paradise." One simple prayer of genuine faith changed his eternal destiny.
Perhaps you've never trusted Christ. You don't need eloquent words or a perfect life. Come to Jesus just as you are. Believe that He died for your sins and rose again. Receive Him by faith, and He will make you a child of God. That's a promise you can build your life on.
Let's pray:
Father, thank You for opening the door of salvation to everyone who believes in Your Son. Thank You that we don't earn our place in Your family but receive it by Your grace through faith in Jesus Christ. If anyone listening has never trusted You, draw them to Yourself today. Help each of us to rejoice that we are Your children because of what Jesus has done for us. In His name we pray, amen.
Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus.
That's it for this podcast. Remember, Jesus loves you and is just a prayer away.