Ephesians 1:5–6 (ESV)
“He predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.”
DEVOTIONAL
Have you ever felt the ache of not belonging? The fear of being left out or overlooked? It’s something many of us carry—sometimes quietly, sometimes painfully. But the gospel speaks directly into that longing with words of profound comfort: “He predestined us for adoption.”
Before the foundation of the world, God—our holy, all-knowing, sovereign Father—chose us. Not because we were lovable. Not because we would somehow earn His affection. But purely because of His grace and love. In Christ, God didn’t just pardon us—He brought us into His family. He gave us a seat at His table. He placed His name upon us.
To be adopted by God means that we are not just tolerated—we are wanted. We are not merely accepted—we are delighted in. Through Jesus, we have become beloved sons and daughters, co-heirs with Christ, welcomed into the eternal joy of the Father.
This truth should anchor our hearts. When the world makes us feel like outsiders, the gospel reminds us: we are insiders in the kingdom of God. When shame whispers that we don’t belong, grace thunders back: “You are mine.”
And why did God do this? “To the praise of His glorious grace.” Our adoption is not only for our comfort—it’s for God’s glory. It is a testament to the riches of His mercy and the greatness of His love.
Rest in that today. You are adopted. You are accepted. You are loved.
Prayer:
Father in heaven,
Thank You for choosing me, not because of anything in me, but simply because of Your mercy and love. Thank You for adopting me into Your family through Jesus Christ. I confess that I often forget who I am in You—I chase the approval of others and listen to the lies of shame. But today, I remember: I am Your child. Loved. Welcomed. Secure. Let this truth shape my heart, my thoughts, and my life. And may my life bring praise to the glory of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.