Identity in Christ: I am Accepted
One of the deepest needs of the human heart is to be accepted. In Christ, we find complete acceptance, not because of who we are but because of what He has done. The Bible tells us that God chose us, adopted us, and calls us His people, securing our identity and place in His family. In today’s devotional, we will explore what it means to be accepted in Christ and how this truth shapes the way we view ourselves and others.
Scripture: Romans 15:7; Ephesians 1:4-6; and 1 Peter 2:10
Romans 15:7 (ESV): “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
Ephesians 1:4-6 (ESV): “Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 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.”
1 Peter 2:10 (ESV): “Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”
Devotional Thought: I am Accepted
As a follower of Christ, one of the most incredible truths we can hold onto is that we are accepted by God. Despite our imperfections, flaws, and mistakes, God in His mercy welcomes us into His family through Jesus Christ. Romans 15:7 reminds us to accept one another just as Christ has accepted us, because this acceptance is not something we earn—it is a gift of grace.
In Ephesians 1:4-6, Paul writes about our election and adoption into God’s family. Before the foundation of the world, God chose us in Christ to be holy and blameless. We are accepted not because of our performance, but because of Christ’s perfect life and sacrificial death. We are now adopted as sons and daughters, and this is part of God’s eternal plan to bring glory to His name.
1 Peter 2:10 reflects on the transformation that takes place when we come to Christ. Once, we were far off, disconnected from the blessings of God, but now we are His people, chosen to receive mercy. We are no longer strangers but are accepted into a new identity as God’s beloved.
Bringing it Home: Applying What We Learned
- Accepted by Grace – We are accepted into God’s family not by our works but through His grace.
- Called to Welcome Others – Just as Christ welcomed us, we are to extend that same love and acceptance to others, regardless of differences.
- Living as God’s People – Our acceptance should shape our identity, reminding us that we belong to God, and we are called to live for His glory.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for accepting me just as I am through Jesus Christ. Help me to remember that my identity is rooted in Your grace and love. Teach me to accept others as You have accepted me, and let my life be a reflection of Your mercy and grace. Amen.
Questions for Reflection (How to Live as Accepted by God)
- How does knowing you are accepted by God change the way you view yourself?
- In what ways can you extend the same acceptance to others that Christ has shown you?
- How can you live out your identity as God’s beloved in your daily life?
Take the Next Step on Your Journey
Thank you for joining me today. If you found this lesson helpful, I encourage you to explore more resources and support on my website, https://jameslongjr.org/. You can also watch my video on my YouTube channel.
Finally, would you consider joining our Lessons for Life monthly membership or our online group coaching, where you’ll find powerful coaching videos, a supportive community, and step-by-step guidance for lasting transformation?
Remember, true change is possible when you walk in God’s grace and for His glory. Until next time, may you find peace, hope, and joy in Christ alone. Blessings!