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Who Is a Child of God?

When I look in the mirror, there’s no doubt about it: I am my father’s son. I mean, we have the same eye color, we make the same face when we’re surprised, and apparently (according to my wife) we walk way too fast. She's not wrong.

Just as the features of our earthly parents are noticeable in us, the traits of the Heavenly Father should also be evident in His children. If you stood before a mirror that reflected your spiritual self, what would you see?

Scripture gives us a clear picture. First, we should see love, which is the mark of those who have been born of God and know Him (1 John 4:7–8). If we belong to Him, love will be evident in how we treat others, how we respond to trials, and how we live out our faith each day.

Second, peace and reconciliation: Jesus said that peacemakers will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9). Being His children changes how we interact with the world. The children of God carry the peace of God into a world full of conflict, division, and anxiety.

Third, obedience. John said, “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands.” (1 John 2:3). A child of God doesn’t just hear, but practices.

And of course, the fruit of the Spirit. You know: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, which show that the Spirit is at work in us (Galatians 5:22–23).

Finally, the child of God confesses Jesus and doesn’t deny Him. They acknowledge the Son and, with Him, the Father (1 John 2:22–23). If we truly belong to God, these qualities will keep growing. Of course, it isn’t this sort of instant perfection, but it is a clear direction.

What does your spiritual reflection look like today? What can you do to resemble your Father more?

Let’s pray: Father, form Your traits in me. Teach me to love as You love, to pursue peace, and to obey from the heart. May Your Spirit produce true fruit in me and a clear confession of Jesus in everything. Amen.