SCRIPTURE - Mathew 3:13-17
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
OBSERVATION
This passage is a special moment in Jesus' life. Remember that Jesus came to show us what it looked like to be in perfect relationship with God as a human being. (That’s why Jesus modeled baptism for us!) But don't miss this: before Jesus does any miracles, shares the Gospel, or fulfills the duties of the Messiah(savior), God expresses His fullest approval in front of dozens if not hundreds of people to let them all know 1) Jesus was his son and 2) that God was pleased with him.
APPLICATION
If Jesus came to show us what it looks like to walk with God, then guess what? If you've committed to honor God with your life, then, like Jesus 1) you are an adopted child of God, and 2) God is pleased with you.
You don't need to prove yourself, do enough good things, or work your way into receiving God's approval. You start from God's approval, and then out of an overflow of His love come changed behaviors and good works.
PRAYER
When we know our identity, we are empowered to live the life God has called us to. Maybe you need to hear from God what He says about who you are as His beloved son or daughter. God may encourage you today that you are a good mom, that you are a faithful friend, or that you are an excellent boss. Who does God say you are?
"God, thank you that I am a child adopted into your family through Jesus. Today I ask you, 'Who do you say that I am?' Help me to hear from you, to hold close your words, and to allow them to change my life. Speak to me today. In Jesus' name, amen."
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