No longer slaves but sons - 14 July 2010

So also, when we were children, we were in slavery under the basic principles of the world. But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father." So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir. Galatians 4:3-7

This is a slightly complicated passage with a very simple meaning.  It always puts me in mind of the parable of the prodigal son.  The prodigal put himself into slavery but when he returned to his father’s house he became once again a son and heir purely as a result of the father’s love.

I have known what it is to be a slave and to have something other than God in control of my life.  I know what it was like to be driven to do things I didn’t really want to do but unable to stop myself.  It wasn’t the greatest experience.  But now through the Grace of God I know freedom from slavery and take my place in God’s family as His son/daughter.

As the heir to God’s kingdom I have all the privileges, I have free entry to any situation or gift that God chooses to give me.  And I have authority in His name.  I can say with conviction the prayer that begins ‘Our Father’ and I can claim the provision, forgiveness and protection offered by that prayer. What a gift. I have the Spirit of the Son in my heart which calls as Jesus did ‘Abba, my Father’