I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything, but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. — Galatians 4:1-5

So Paul helps us see the beauty and benefits of our relationship with the Father. He points out how being a child and son of God comes with certain advantages — endless ownership rights. But he also illustrates that while we enjoy these benefits, we still have a Lord. Formerly sin was our master and lord, but now we have a new Master and a new Lord — a Father. And he is a Good Father. And under his mentorship, training, and discipleship, we will spend a lifetime growing and maturing.

But the tragedy of legalism is that it gives the appearance of maturity and sonship when in reality, it leaves men enslaved to a god of their own making. And many a man has innocently followed other men into this trap. And it is a trap because it leads me right back to the prison of the law. But this is insanity, for we were redeemed from this bondage and given endless ownership rights in Christ. So live redeemed like a free man today. You were adopted as a son of God.

ASK THIS: Are you rejecting your adoption and inheritance in any way?

DO THIS: If so, return to freedom in Christ and the abundance of your good Father.

PRAY THIS: God, you are my Father and Lord. No one will have mastery over me — but you!

PLAY THIS: Casting Crowns - Good Good Father.

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