BEHOLDING WHAT WE ARE BECOMING
And because we are His children, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.”
Galatians 4:6 (NLT)
Have you ever experienced a moment that made you react—a surprise gift, an unexpected encounter, or finding an insect under a neglected pot? Our responses reveal the impact of an experience and how deeply it resonates. In Galatians, we find that our identity as children of God begins with a response to Jesus. When we encounter Him, our hearts are moved to respond with belief.
Identity starts with beholding. As we see God’s character—His beauty, humility, and trustworthiness—our hearts are moved to believe. This belief forms the foundation for accepting what He says about us. True confidence doesn’t come from forcing belief but from encountering Jesus, who is the ultimate answer to insecurity, problems and lies.
A challenge for Christians is trying to force belief in the truth of Scripture without truly encountering God’s character. In a world obsessed with self-validation, many strive to prove their worth through effort alone. Yet, our confidence isn’t rooted in our abilities—it comes from Jesus, whose presence transforms us.
Belief isn’t only formed in dramatic encounters with Jesus but also in quiet, everyday moments. It’s in these unhurried rhythms—like the silent ease between close friends—that intimacy grows. Similarly, our relationship with God gives us access to an unforced, unhurried space with Him, requiring no agenda, just presence. It is that proximity to Jesus that transforms everything.
APPLICATION: As we draw near, encountering His love and truth, our hearts respond. Beholding Him shapes our identity, deepening our confidence and allowing us to rest in the truth of who He says we are.
- He Is Love (1 John 4:8) → We Are Loved (1 John 4:19)
- He Is Protector (Psalms 18:2) → We Are Safe (Psalms 18:2)
- He Is A Good Creator (Colossians 1:16) → We Are Purposefully Made (Psalm 139:14)
- He Is The Author Of Hope (1 Peter 1:3) → We Have Hope (Isaiah 40:31)
Today, take time to think about the lies you wrestle with or the needs you have and work backward. How does the person of Jesus Christ answer your needs? Meditate on the scriptures that reveal God’s character and allow that awareness to cultivate the belief you need.
PRAYER: Father, you are the author of Truth. I am thankful I don’t have to create my purpose, meaning, safety or provision. Everything I need is found in you. Reveal your character to me today and teach me to respond in belief. In your precious name, I pray. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?