Our son Ricky has autism, and sometimes he struggles to obey (or even to understand why he should). When that happens, my husband pulls him in for a close embrace and reminds him, “You don’t want to do that. You’re my son; you’re a Roberts! And a Roberts can do what is right!” This encounter is even more meaningful because Ricky was adopted from Korea, so he was chosen to be a Roberts by parents who love him very much.

This sweet moment is a small picture of what is true for all who have trusted in Jesus. Our heavenly Father is holy. He is set apart, doing what is right from a heart of love. In this love, He adopts us as His beloved children.

As a child of God, you have a new identity and a new calling. You are no longer an orphan destined to rebel. You are His child called to be holy, just like the Father. He has not left you alone to do this, but has given His Spirit to make you like Him.

The next time you are tempted to sin, remember who you are. You belong to your Father, and you can be holy as He is holy.