Known by God

Reflection

I’m a big genealogy buff. I love digging into family history, seeing how past generations shaped the present. I also enjoy watching shows where adoptees go on a race to find unknown relatives. There’s a longing in them to complete their identity.
Where did I come from?
Who do I look like?
What traits were passed down to me?

Even if we know our family line, we often do the same, pointing out which parent we favor or where our behaviors came from. And if you’re anything like me, maybe you’ve even found yourself saying something you swore you’d never say. My running joke these days? “I’m morphing into my mother.”

In this verse, Paul reminds us that God knows who belongs to Him. He isn’t confused about who His children are. They resemble Him, not by physical features, but through spiritual ones. His children bear the mark of His character. Their lives reflect His values. It’s not about earning salvation through works, but about identifying with Christ.

Those who name the name of Christ are called to live in a way that looks like Him, departing from iniquity, pursuing holiness, and walking in love. Not to gain God’s approval, but because they already belong to Him.

Our identity in Christ is sealed and sure. And even when we feel uncertain, unseen, or like we’ve lost our way, He knows who are His.