Paul vs. The Galatiansনমুনা

Adopted as Sons

“Pivot points” are great story devices…because they exist in real life. Those times when we realize that we've hit that particular topic for long enough and with enough emphasis that we probably need to make a change.

For me, it often comes in my instructions to my kids. I suddenly hit the point when I know my tone and tactic have been enough, and I need to change it up. My passionate appeals to logic have reached (past) their logical end, and I can see from the bewildered and exhausted looks on their little faces that Daddy has said enough.

We all hit that spot from time to time. It seems like Paul finds that spot too in today’s passage.

After landing a barrage of blows on the Galatians, Paul shifts tone from reprimand to affirmation: in Christ, believers receive adoption—we become sons and heirs.

In other words, how could you forget what being saved by grace really does for you?

Today’s verse is a deeply pragmatic statement, and it may be difficult for some of us to grapple with.

For men who have a healthy and secure relationship with their dad, perhaps this does not land as anything significant. But for those who may not, being able to call God “Father” is a momentous title.

Men, if we are carrying insecurities from absent fathers or unfulfilled expectations, this truth shocks and comforts. We are not defined by lineage, performance, or societal role—we are sons of God, loved, secure, and accepted. We are given the very Spirit of Jesus to share in His life.

Such identity recalibration allows us to live from abundance, not lack. When rooted in adoption, our place as husbands and fathers isn’t control-based—it’s characterized by presence, belonging, and humility. As friends, we are not prone to competition or tension. A changed view of God causes us to step into confident vulnerability, modeling healthy emotions and relational interdependence.

The Spirit—called “the Spirit of His Son”—echoes “Abba! Father!” into the heart of every believer.

Let’s allow that cry to unite us in a family we didn’t build—a secure community of God's adopted children.

In this identity, real strength emerges—not brute force or stoicism but a Christlike mix of courage and tenderness that marks the men of God’s family.

Prayer: Father, thank You for adopting me into Your family and for placing Your Spirit in me that calls out to You. Help me walk in that identity—confident, compassionate, and connected. Amen.

Reflection: How does embracing your identity as God’s beloved son transform your leadership and relationships?