In the last tidbit, I shared that our identity is not based on a title, social status, ministry, or what we do. Our heavenly Father calls us His sons and daughters. That’s who we are. I love what the apostle John wrote when he said, Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we should be called the children of God (1 John 3:1).  

    The word “behold” is a call to action. It invites us to look intently, consider, observe, and experience His love. It all began with Him. For God so loved the world that He sent His Son so that we may not only have eternal life but also know Him and His love in this life. He desires that we have confidence in who we are and whose we are – a beloved child of God. Our Father is all about fellowship and relationship.

    Our heavenly Father loves us where we are, but He cares enough not to let us stay there. In heaven, we are known by our character, not by how good we are or by what we do for Him. Our character is meant to reveal God's divine nature. It’s not just about knowing His ways, but about our lives being transformed that reveal His life, truth, and ways.

     In the Garden of Eden, God was heard as a voice “walking” in the Garden (Genesis 3:8). Today, we are the Garden of the Lord, a temple for the Holy Spirit. God has said, “I will dwell in them and walk in them.” His voice walks in every area of our being—mind, spirit, heart, and soul. The more His thoughts, Word, love, and Spirit transform our lives, the more of His divine nature that reveals the image of His dear Son in our lives (2nd Corinthians 6:19).  

      A Christian's eternal life begins the day we are born again. Eternal life is eternal living that will continue for all eternity. It is not just about where we are going, but what we are growing into—His image and likeness. Our nature and character traits are NOT left behind when we pass on, but go with us into eternity. There, in His presence, all is made known.

      What we are on earth is known in heaven. It is for this reason that I ask the Lord to judge my thoughts, attitudes, and ways so that I may be filled with His Truth and love, shining with the light of His presence. The road to eternity is paved every day. Being Christ-like is not easy, but as we follow Jesus and abide in the Father’s love, thankfully, “

   We can be confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6).  

 In His heart and love – Roy Roden