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God desires kingdom maturity for all His children.

He doesn’t just want us to be secure knowing our sins have been forgiven and that we will spend eternity with Him in heaven. He also wants us to grow up in Christ while following Him during our time on earth.

Two Terms

The New Testament uses the terms “children of God” and “sons of God” to explain this goal of maturity.

“Children of God” identifies our new family relationship resulting from spiritual birth. “Sons of God” identifies our family standing based on adoption and maturity. (“Sons” is not focused on gender but emphasizes spiritual growth.)

Here are the Greek words used in the New Testament:

children — τέκνα (tekna)
sons — υἱοί (huioi)

Unfortunately, some English Bible translations use “children” even though the Greek word is υἱοί (huioi) and therefore misrepresent the intended distinction. And, the Old Testament uses “sons of God” to refer to a variety of supernatural spiritual beings, thereby adding to the confusion.

Children of God

First, consider some “children of God” passages in the New Testament.

In the Gospel of John, the apostle writes:

“But to all who have received him—those who believe in his name—he has given the right to become God’s children.”  —John 1:12, NET

We become “children of God” through spiritual birth when we receive Christ and believe in His name. Receive and believe = spiritual birth.

Paul admonishes the Ephesians:

“Therefore, be imitators of God as dearly loved children…”  —Ephesians 5:1, NET

“Children of God” are to imitate their heavenly Father, just like all children mimic the speech and behavior of their earthly parents.

Paul admonishes the Philippians:

“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without blemish…”  —Philippians 2:15, NET

Here Paul instructs his spiritual children, like any parent would exhort their earthly children, not to grumble or argue.

Sons of God

Now, let’s look at some Bible passages that mention “sons of God.”

In Romans, 8:14, the apostle Paul explains that “sons of God” are those believers who are led by the spirit of God.

“For all who are led by the Spirit of God are the sons of God.”  —Romans 8:14, NET

Believers who follow the leading of the Holy Spirit are walking in the Spirit and on their way to becoming a Son of God.

Jesus explained that “sons of God” love their enemies and do good. They lend and expect nothing back.

“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to ungrateful and evil people.”  —Luke 6:35, NET

Jesus further explains that “sons of God” work to facilitate peace between others, as well as encourage people to seek peace with God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”  —Matthew 5:9, ESV

Comparing Child and Son

As you look at the following chart, notice the maturity differences between “children of God” and “sons of God.”

Children of God	Sons of God
John 1:12 Become children by receiving Christ	Romans 8:14 Become sons by following the Spirit
Philippians 2:15 Children are not to grumble or argue	Matthew 5:9 Sons are peacemakers
Ephesians 5:1 Children Imitate their heavenly Father	Galatians 5:22 Sons reflect the character of Christ

Being born into a family does not necessarily mean you will follow your parents obediently.

Children grumble and argue when they don’t get what they want, but the mature son intervenes to bring peace.

Children copy the behavior of their parents, but as they grow and mature they reflect the character qualities of their parents.

Sons by Faith

In Galatians 3:26, Paul states that all believers are sons of God through faith.

“For in Christ Jesus, you are all sons of God through faith.”  —Galatians 3:26, NET

So what does that mean? The term sonship identifies the relationship between believers and God as His children. But it is more than just adoption. It also suggests a deep connection and implied inheritance.

When we are born again as spiritual children, God adopts us as sons into His eternal family. However, He expects us to grow, mature, and become all that He intended us to be. He desires to proudly call us His obedient sons, entrusted with great responsibilities and a special eternal inheritance.

Consider this: A father can introduce his five-year-old boy as his child or his son. However, what if a father introduces his 25-year-old son as his child rather than as his son? What does that imply? Many young men may be physically mature, but they have not fully developed emotionally or in their character. As a result, it would be unwise to rely on them for critical responsibilities or to entrust them with an inheritance they might squander.

Maturity Changes Interactions

Let’s consider another example: a father building a treehouse with his eight-year-old son. The father will make sure to keep the son away from dangerous power tools to prevent any injuries. Additionally, he will supervise the entire construction process, ensuring that all the boards are properly secured together.

Twenty years later, the son is now working in his father’s construction company, building houses. Due to the son’s maturity and responsibility, his father has entrusted him with significant responsibilities to oversee the project and manage the work of others.

God desires that we grow into the obedient, mature, responsible people He created us to be. He will be rejoicing that we will accomplish the good works He created us for. Then, we will also reflect Christ’s character qualities in our daily lives.

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Faith is the primary way God measures kingdom maturity.

The Maturity Paradox

There’s a profound paradox between our conventional understanding of maturity and what God deems true maturity. This revelation can open our minds to a deeper understanding of the spiritual journey we are on.

As children grow into adulthood, their parents want them to become more independent. Independence from their parents is a sign of natural maturity. However, with God, it is just the opposite. As believers mature, God wants them to become ever more dependent upon Him and the resources He makes available to them. That is the spiritual sign of maturity.

Developmental maturity = Greater independence

Spiritual maturity = Greater dependence on God

Faith Is the Key

Faith is not just a belief but a powerful spiritual lens that enables us to see the invisible realities of life. Faith empowers us to use the spiritual kingdom authority and resources that God has provided to impact the physical world. Thus, faith is the currency of Christ’s Kingdom.  

Faith is not simply optimism or positive affirmations; it involves trusting in God’s character, believing what he says, and following him regardless of the circumstances.

Four Characteristics of Faith

1. Faith Pleases God

“Now without faith, it is impossible to please him, for the one who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”  —Hebrews 11:6, NET

Faith is not just a component of the Christian life; it is the solid foundation. Without faith, it is impossible to build a relationship with God that is pleasing to Him. Faith is how we connect with God and it aligns our lives with His will.

Approaching God reflects a willingness for his presence and the desire for a relationship. That relationship builds when we believe in God’s goodness, His responsiveness to seekers, and His blessings for those who earnestly pursue Him.

2. Faith Is Confident

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”  —Hebrews 11:1

Faith involves trusting that what God has promised will come to pass, even if we do not see it yet. It means believing in the reality of things that have yet to be fulfilled and cannot be seen with the physical eyes. This confidence is rooted in the character of God.

3. Faith is Spiritual Sight

“For we live by faith, not by sight.”  —2 Corinthians 5:7, NET

Living by faith means relying on God’s guidance and provision instead of depending solely on our own understanding or what we can perceive with our senses.

In contrast, living by sight involves making decisions based only on what we can see, touch, and understand through our natural senses. This approach focuses on visible evidence and tangible proof.

However, the Christian life calls for a deeper level of trust that goes beyond what is immediately apparent. It requires a willingness to follow God’s leading, step by step, without knowing the destination while trusting that He will provide and guide us along the way.

4. Faith Requires Action

“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”  — James 2:17, NIV

Faith alone is not enough; it must be supported by actions based on God’s revelation to be considered true faith.

True faith leads to corresponding actions. These actions serve as evidence of genuine faith, demonstrating the reality of one’s belief and trust in God. Without actions, faith remains incomplete and unproven. A thought that does not result in action is considered dead because it lacks the vitality and authenticity that action-based faith possesses.

Kingdom Faith Is a Process

Faith is not just a single event but an ongoing cycle of growth.

There are four steps of the faith cycle:

• Step 1: Faith in God’s character.
• Step 2: Confidence in God’s Word.
• Step 3: Perseverance in God’s will.
• Step 4: Fulfillment of God’s promises.

God is the reason for our faith. Our faith is in God. Therefore, the knowledge of God and his character is fundamental, supporting our faith continually. We develop confidence in His Word and promises as we grow to know Him better and experience His trustworthiness.

We step out in faith to demonstrate our trust in God and belief in His Word and persist in doing His will. Then, when we see God act on our behalf, we are grateful for His fulfillment of promises. And that generates greater faith in God’s character; so, we trust Him even more as the cycle continues.

Faith Indicates Maturity

The display of faith reflects spiritual maturity. Let’s reflect on the different stages in the disciples’ faith journey.

The first stage in the faith journey was when Jesus called the disciples to follow him.

The disciples observed Jesus, became acquainted with him, and gained knowledge from him as he displayed his authority.

Performing miracles, Jesus healed the sick and cast out demons. He also raised a girl from the dead. But when a storm threatened them while crossing the Sea of Galilee, the disciples panicked and woke Jesus. After calming the storm, Jesus scolded them for having little faith.

The second stage in the faith journey started when Jesus sent the disciples out two by two to minister.

The disciples received authority to heal the sick and cast out demons as they co-ministered with Jesus.

During this period, the disciples saw Jesus feed the 5000 and then the 4000. They saw Jesus transfigured on a mountain. Later, Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead after he had been deceased for four days. And yet, when Jesus was betrayed and arrested, the disciples fled and denied him.

But then Jesus appeared to them after the resurrection.  He forgave their lack of belief in him and reconfirmed to them what he had previously prophesied regarding his death and resurrection.

The disciples’ faith journey entered its third stage as Jesus commissioned and empowered them to minister on his behalf.

Jesus gave them the authority to fulfill the Great Commission in his absence.

The disciples witnessed Jesus’ ascension into heaven, were filled with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and then spread the gospel worldwide. The Book of Acts records the supernatural deeds of the early believers, which were the results of their active faith.

Your Faith Journey

Our faith is grounded in God’s character, His promises, and His actions throughout history. By focusing on God as the foundation of our faith, we anchor our trust in His unchanging nature and faithfulness.

Understanding God’s character is crucial to our maturing faith and daily lives. It comes from studying the Bible, experiencing His presence, and observing His work. This knowledge shapes our decisions, influences our actions, and serves as a moral and spiritual compass.

As we cultivate our relationship with God, we gain a deeper confidence rooted in our personal experiences of His faithfulness, answered prayers, and the fulfillment of His promises in our lives. Each time we see God intervening on our behalf, our faith strengthens, and our trust in Him deepens.

Where are you in your faith journey with God?

Are you just beginning to understand God’s trustworthiness and developing confidence in His promises? Or are you already seeing God accomplish his supernatural work through you? It all starts with trust in God and persisting in doing his will through active faith.

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Kingdom power bought to us through the Holy Spirit is required to develop kingdom maturity. This involves living a Spirit-filled life. 

In Romans 8:14, the apostle Paul explains that those whom the Spirit of God leads are the sons of God.

Being led by the Spirit is like walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25), abiding in Christ (John 15:5), and living the exchanged/crucified life (Galatians 2:20).

All four concepts emphasize a deep dependence on God, highlighting the importance of relying on Him for guidance, strength, and presence. They involve cultivating a personal relationship with Him through ongoing communication and fellowship. This relationship will transform the believer’s life into a fruitful Christian life that reflects God’s character.

The Holy Spirit’s Actions

The Holy Spirit has several crucial responsibilities in the believer’s life.

When someone experiences spiritual rebirth by receiving Christ into their life through believing in His name, the Holy Spirit indwells, seals, and baptizes them. Afterward, the Holy Spirit is repeatedly available to fill the believer, enabling them to live the fruitful and supernatural life God desires.

A new believer is:

• Indwelt by the Spirit

“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?”  —1 Corinthians 3:16, ESV

The Holy Spirit takes up permanent residence in the hearts of believers at the instant they are born again.

Each believer is a sacred space where God’s presence resides. When a person accepts Jesus Christ as their Savior, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within them; guiding, empowering, and transforming their life. This indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit signifies God’s ownership and serves as a source of spiritual life and strength. It means that God is not distant; rather, He is actively involved in the believer’s life, providing guidance, comfort, and empowerment.

The Holy Spirit works within believers to transform them into the image of Christ, helping them grow in holiness and righteousness. This ongoing process involves renewing the mind with God’s truths, developing Christ-like character, which empowers individuals to fulfill God’s purposes.

• Sealed by the Spirit

“And when you heard the word of truth (the gospel of your salvation)—when you believed in Christ— you were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit,”  —Ephesians 1:13, NET

The believer is marked with the seal of the Holy Spirit when they are born again. It is a guarantee of their eternal security.

When individuals believe in Christ, they are “marked with the seal” of the Holy Spirit. In ancient times, a seal represented ownership and authenticity. Similarly, the Holy Spirit acts as a seal, indicating that the believer belongs to God and is genuinely saved. The Holy Spirit is also the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Helper and Comforter to His people (John 14:16-17). The presence of the Holy Spirit guarantees the believer’s inheritance in Christ and serves as a foretaste of the eternal life to come.

• Baptized by the Spirit

“For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body.”  —1 Corinthians 12:13

The Holy Spirit baptizes believers into the body of Christ when they are born again.

The Holy Spirit is the source of spiritual life and unity among Christians, empowering and connecting believers. Spiritual baptism occurs when someone accepts Jesus Christ, distinguishing it from water baptism which signifies immersion in Christ’s life and identifies the believer with His death, burial, and resurrection.

The baptism of the Holy Spirit highlights the unity and diversity within the body of Christ, emphasizing the Spirit’s role in uniting believers and enabling their interdependence despite differences.

• Filled with the Spirit

“And do not get drunk with wine, which is debauchery, but be filled by the Spirit,”  —Ephesians 5:18, NET

For believers to walk in the Spirit, they must be filled with the Spirit repeatedly, moment by moment. To be filled with the Spirit is an act. To walk in the Spirit is a habit. To be filled with the Spirit means living under the direct influence and control of the Holy Spirit. To walk in the Spirit means remaining in the state of being filled with the Spirit.

A believer can be influenced by worldly matters or guided by the Holy Spirit. Instead of being influenced by alcohol, believers are encouraged to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Being filled with the Holy Spirit means allowing the Spirit to direct, guide, and control your life. It involves yielding to His leading and being empowered by His presence.

A Spirit-filled life will visibly show a life ruled by self-control, wisdom, and a commitment to God’s purposes. They will demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). This stands in stark contrast to the harmful behaviors that accompany drunkenness.

How to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit¹

Jesus promised an abundant and fruitful life (John 10:10). A life filled with the Spirit is guided by Christ, who empowers us through the Holy Spirit (John 15).

To be filled with the Holy Spirit, you can follow these steps:

First, you must have a sincere desire to live a life devoted to Christ and guided by the Spirit. (Matthew 5:6; John 7:37-39)

Second, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any sins in your life. Confess them to God and thank him for forgiving all your sins because Christ died for you (1 John 1:9).

Confessing your sins means agreeing with God about you and sin. That includes: What you did was a sin (both disobedience and rebellion) against God. In Christ, you are a new creation and child of God with the holiness of Christ. You already have God’s complete forgiveness because Jesus died on the cross for your sins.

With this acknowledgment, you turn away from your sin and again choose to obey Him. Sin no longer suits you.

Confessing your sins means agreeing with God that they are harmful to you or others. That acknowledgment causes you to turn away from that attitude or action, and you find yourself obeying God. (Colossians 2:13-15; 1 John 1; 2:1-3; Hebrews 10:1-17)

Third, surrender every aspect of your life to God through prayer by acknowledging his presence and seeking his guidance. (Romans 12:1-2).

Here is how you can ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit:

By faith claim the fullness of the Holy Spirit, based on God’s command in Ephesians 5:18.

 “Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit,” —Ephesians 5:18, NLT

And, by faith claim the fullness of the Holy Spirit, based on God’s promise in 1 John 5:14-15 that he will always answer when we ask according to His will.

“This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.” —1 John 5:14-15, NASB

We are filled with the Holy Spirit through faith alone. However, genuine prayer is one way to express our faith. The following is a suggested prayer:

“Dear heavenly Father, I need You. I confess that I have sinned against you by directing my own life. Thank you for forgiving my sins through Christ’s death on the cross for me. I now invite the Holy Spirit to take control of my life. By faith, I ask you to fill me with the Holy Spirit as you commanded me to be filled, and as you promised in your Word.  I ask this in Jesus’ name and thank you for filling me with the Holy Spirit.”

If this prayer expresses the desire of your heart, then use it to ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit.

You are filled based on the factual trustworthiness of God’s Word, regardless of how you feel. You may not feel any different when the Holy Spirit fills you. Part of this new journey is acknowledging that emotions are fickle and should not be trusted, but God’s word can be trusted.

Go about your day confidently, knowing the Holy Spirit is guiding you and giving you the wisdom and strength you need to live in a way that pleases the Lord. And stay alert for the Spirit’s gentle guidance throughout the day. This is the confirmation of his presence.

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¹The above is abridged from “Have You Made the Wonderful Discovery of the Spirit-Filled Life?” by Dr. Bill Bright.

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Many believers feel spiritually defeated and unproductive, but Christ offers us a vibrant life of purpose and adventure when we walk daily in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Upon believing in Jesus as your Savior and trusting Him as your Lord, the Holy Spirit gives you new life in Christ and resides in you.

The apostle Paul explains it like this:

“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.”  —Galatians 5:16-18, NIV

Walking in the Spirit means aligning your thoughts, actions, and desires with the Holy Spirit’s guidance. It involves being attentive to His leading and allowing Him to influence your decisions.

For believers in Christ, walking in the Spirit is essential. It represents a lifestyle empowered by Him, requiring obedience and submission. Neglecting the Holy Spirit’s guidance can lead to sin.

Live in Alignment with the Holy Spirit

When you realize you are not filled with the Spirit, confess your wrongdoing and repent. Thank God and renew your commitment to be guided by the Holy Spirit. This “course correction” process is known as “Spiritual Breathing.”

Years ago, Bill Bright, the founder of Campus Crusade for Christ, compared walking in the Spirit on a moment-by-moment basis to breathing. When you breathe, you exhale impurities and inhale pure air and oxygen.

Spiritual Breathing

In “Spiritual Breathing,” you “exhale” by confessing your sin and “inhale” by faith, asking the Holy Spirit to control you again.

Exhale

Confess your sin. Agree with God about your sin and thank Him for His forgiveness based on God’s promise in 1 John 1:9.

 ^“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”  —1 John 1:9, NIV

Confession involves repentance, a change in attitude and behavior.

Inhale

By faith, ask the Holy Spirit to once again control your life based on God’s command in Ephesians 5:18 and the promise in 1 John 5:14-15. Then, believe again that the Holy Spirit is guiding and strengthening you.

“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit,” — Ephesians 5:18, NIV

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. ¹⁵ And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.”  —1 John 5:14-15, NIV

Regularly practicing spiritual breathing will make you more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance in your everyday life. This is what it means to walk in the Spirit.

Live in Obedience to God’s Word

Walking in the Spirit makes it possible for believers to be obedient to God’s Word and allow it to shape their life. The Holy Spirit guides them as they study the Bible, meditate on its truths, and apply its principles to their daily life.

Jesus said:

“If you love me, you will obey my commandments.”  —John 14:15

“But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.”  — Luke 11:28

James encouraged believers:

“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”  —James 1:22

These verses collectively emphasize that obedience to God’s Word is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, leading to guidance, blessing, and a deeper relationship with God.

Live Empowered Over Sin

Walking in the Spirit empowers believers to resist the influence of sin in their lives. As we dedicate ourselves to God for His purposes, the Spirit gives us wisdom and strength to flee temptations and overcome sins. By relying on the Holy Spirit, we embrace and live out of our new and true identity in Christ, renewing our minds and presenting our bodies as righteous instruments set apart for God’s holy use.  

“Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its desires, and do not present your members to sin as instruments to be used for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who are alive from the dead and your members to God as instruments to be used for righteousness.”  —Romans 6:12-13

As believers cooperate with the Holy Spirit, they will reject sin and pursue a life that honors God.

Live in Triumph Over Evil

Walking in the Spirit allows us to resist the devil’s schemes through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

James 4:7 instructs:

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Resisting the devil involves actively standing against his temptations and lies, using the authority and power given to us by God.

Live Out the Fruit of the Spirit

When you walk in the Spirit, your life will naturally produce the fruit of the Spirit.

“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”  —Galatians 5:22-23, NLT 

These qualities reflect the character of Christ and are evidence of the Spirit’s work in your life.

As you continue to trust Christ moment by moment through walking in the Spirit, you will experience spiritual growth; meaningful Bible study and prayer; power in witnessing; and strength to resist temptation, sin, and the schemes of the devil. You will live the victorious life that Christ promised.

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A few hours before his execution, Jesus was brought before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judaea, to be judged. Jesus made a remarkable statement.

“‘You would have no authority over me at all, unless it was given to you from above.’”  —John 19:11

Many years later, in a letter to believers in Rome, the apostle Paul writes:

“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except by God’s appointment, and the authorities that exist have been instituted by God.”  — Romans 13:1

God is the source of all authority. He reigns as the supreme ruler of the universe.

What does this truth mean to you and me as loyal followers of Christ today? How does this impact how we live, pray, and serve God?

God Has Given Christ All Authority

Around 2000 years ago, Jesus walked the earth and demonstrated to His disciples how to live with the authority granted by God.

Paul affirmed Christ’s ultimate sovereignty to the Ephesians when he explained the supremacy of Christ over all other powers and authorities,

“God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come.”  — Ephesians 1:20-21, NRSV

In the book of Hebrews we read that:

“You [God] put all things under his control. ‘For when he put all things under his control, he left nothing outside of his control.’”  —Hebrews 2:8

These verses emphasize Christ’s authority over both spiritual and physical realms, assuring us of His ability to fulfill God’s promises and to guide and protect us.

Understanding and embracing this authority can inspire confidence and hope, encouraging victorious living in faith.

Christ Delegates Authority to His Followers

Before Jesus ascended into heaven, he told his disciples:

“‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”  —Matthew 28:18

Christ holds ultimate authority and extends it to His followers, empowering us to continue His work on earth. We are entrusted with the responsibility and authority to advance Christ’s kingdom. We are called to exercise this authority in alignment with God’s will and purposes.

Exercise God-given Authority

God gives us the authority and power needed to fulfill our commission and calling.

To effectively use this Kingdom authority, we must seek God’s guidance and wisdom, ensuring our actions are aligned with His will. It is essential to exercise this authority with love and humility.

1. We have the authority to Live out our new identity in Christ.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”  —2 Corinthians 5:17

This means that our old nature has been crucified with Christ, and we can now live by faith in Him.

“My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”  —Galatians 2:20, NLT

Our new identity is rooted in righteousness and holiness.

Exercise authority over your sinful nature by rejecting former behaviors and thoughts contradicting God’s will. Renew your mind with Scripture and live by faith in alignment with your new righteous identity, pleasing God.

2. We have the authority to accomplish God’s will.

“We are his workmanship, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared beforehand so we may do them.” —Ephesians 2:10

Aligning your actions and decisions with God’s will involves recognizing and utilizing the time, talent, and treasure God has given us to fulfill His purposes.

Exercise authority over personal ambitions and worldly goals by seeking God’s guidance through prayer and Bible study, and being sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading.

3. We have the authority to be empowered by the Holy Spirit.

“Now to him who by the power that is working within usis able to do far beyond all that we ask or think, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” —Ephesians 3:20-21

A believer cannot successfully live the Christian life through natural means. God designed us to live it supernaturally, trusting in His promises and relying on the Holy Spirit’s power instead of our own abilities.

Recognize that true strength and success can only come through the Holy Spirit’s empowerment, not from our efforts.

Exercise authority over self-reliance by shifting your trust and dependence from your abilities and efforts to God’s power and direction.

4. We have the authority to ask God in Jesus’ name.

Jesus promised:

“I tell you the solemn truth, the person who believes in me will perform the miraculous deeds that I am doing, and will perform greater deeds than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.”  —John 14:12-14

Approach prayer with faith, believing God hears and answers according to His perfect will. Trust in His power and faithfulness.

Exercise authority in prayer by declaring God’s truth, promises, and purposes over the situation. Speak with conviction and authority in Jesus’ name, believing that His word will come to pass.

5. We have the authority to resist the forces of evil.

“Finally, be strengthened in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.”  —Ephesians 6:10–12

Believers live on a spiritual battlefield and are equipped with spiritual armor to triumph over sin, the world, and the forces of darkness.

6. We have the authority to live a Godly life.

The Bible promises:

“We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin.”  —Romans 6:6, NLT

Just as Christ died and was resurrected, believers have also died to sin and are reborn into a new life in Christ. As a result, we are no longer bound or enslaved by sin. Instead, we are free to live a life that honors God, empowered by His grace.

Exercise authority by considering yourself dead to worldly influences, fleshly desires, and the devil’s manipulation.  When considering yourself dead, it eliminates their power over you.

7. We have the authority to triumph in adversity.

“Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will trouble, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?… No, in all these things we have complete victory through him who loved us!”  —Romans 8:35, 37

God uses adversity to help believers grow in their faith and develop Christlike character. And God promises that no adversity will ever separate us from His love.

And, after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory in Christ will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. —1 Peter 5:10

Exercise authority over impatience, doubt, and despair in tough times by trusting in God’s unwavering love and faithfulness to help you emerge with your faith intact and victorious.

Use Your God-given Authority

With Christ’s authority, we can boldly share the gospel. Jesus instructed us to make disciples of all nations. By spreading His message and living out His teachings, we can grow His Kingdom and showcase the power of His love and grace.

How will you use this authority to fulfill your calling and advance His Kingdom?

Watch the summary video

Watch the summary video

Who are you really? There are three perceptions of “you”:

1. Who you think you are
2. Who others think you are
3. Who God knows you really are

God wants you to see yourself from His point of view. As you do, you will recognize the tremendous value God places on you and His desires for your life.

Before God’s vision of you can become a reality, He must transform you into the person He can use to fulfill His purposes. That requires developing a growing relationship with Him, adopting His values and priorities, and conforming your character to that of Christ.

Transformation Is Instantaneous, But Also a Life-Long Process

When you were spiritually born again, God exchanged your old identity for a brand-new one.

The apostle Paul explains:

“So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; what is old has passed away—look, what is new has come!”

The instant you invited Jesus into your life as your Savior and Lord, the person God created you to be — the new you — was born.

^“Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.”  —Ephesians 4:21-24, NLT

When you were born again, God exchanged your old identity for a brand new one.

In the spiritual realm, you were instantly transformed into a totally new person with a new nature. On the outside, you still look the same but on the inside God gave you a new identity in Christ.

But now in the physical realm, you must learn who you are in Christ so you can make choices consistent with what God has already done through this spiritual transformation.

Because of your new birth in Christ, you can now begin to live in a way consistent with this spiritual transformation. It is foolish to live in the past by continuing to make decisions based on your old identity. This new discovery and renewing of your mind is a life-long process.

By faith, continually accept the reality of who you are in Christ and allow God to conform you to your new identity. Believe what God says about you is true. When you base your identity on how God sees you, you can confidently live in the assurance of His perfect plan for your life.

Transformation Results in Character Development

Your character is comprised of values and convictions that have been developed by your relationships and life experiences. Character is the essence of who you are and spiritual maturity shapes character. Character is developed over time.

God told the prophet Samuel:

“People look on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” —Romans 12:2, NLT

You can’t effectively be used by God without first adopting His values and priorities. This means letting go of worldly values and embracing the principles found in Scripture. It involves a shift in perspective, where God’s desires become your desires, and His priorities become your priorities. This transformation requires a willingness to submit to God’s authority and to seek His guidance in all areas of your life.

God’s ultimate goal for you is to become more like Christ. This process of sanctification involves the Holy Spirit working in you to transform your character. Then, your life will bear the fruit of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). As you grow in Christlikeness, you become a vessel that God can use to accomplish His purposes.

When God reveals a change He wants you to make in what you think, say, or do — ask the Holy Spirit to help you bring about that transformation.

Transformation Happens by Overcoming Adversity

God uses adversity as a tool to refine us and increase our capacity for greatness. Our difficulties reveal our strength of character.

The apostle Paul explains:

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.”  —Romans 5:3-4, NLT

Adversity often tests our character and resilience. When we face challenges, we have the opportunity to develop qualities such as patience, perseverance, and courage. These experiences can strengthen our character and prepare us for future obstacles.

Through adversity, God gives us the opportunity to grow in our faith and spiritual character so we reflect more of his nature. But it is our choice whether or not we allow that transformation to take place. If we harbor resentment toward God and others, we will be weakened instead of strengthened through adversity.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”—Romans 8:28, NLT

Recognize adversity as God’s way of refining your attitude and actions.

Through God’s transforming process, you become the person He created you to be. It is a process that will increasingly conform you to the image of Christ.

Transformation Happens as We Come to Know God’s Love

When we come to see and know God as He really is — full of love for us — that understanding transforms us. Knowing and believing that we are loved by God fills a need in our heart and changes us from the inside out so that we actually become more and more like Jesus.

John tells us: “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” (I John 4:16, ESV).

In God’s perfect design, transformation happens as we know and believe the love of God.

Paul prays:

“that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height — to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God”  —Ephesians 3:17-19, NKJV

We will never come to the end of knowing God’s love. But as we grow in understanding and believe it, we become more like Jesus and then we can love others with the same love God first gave to us. 

As you develop this growing relationship with God, adopt His values and priorities, and allow your character to become more like Christ, you begin to see God’s vision of your life more clearly. This vision is not just about what you do, but who you are becoming. It involves using your unique gifts and talents to serve the Lord and advance His Kingdom. It means living a life that reflects God’s love and grace to the world around you.

Once you understand God’s vision of your life, you are called to live it out with faith and obedience. This involves stepping out in faith, trusting that God will equip you and guide you. It means being willing to take risks and make sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel. As you walk in obedience to God’s calling, you will experience the fulfillment and joy that comes from living out your God-given purpose.

As you embrace this process, you will begin to see God’s vision of your life unfold, and you will be equipped to live out your purpose with faith and obedience.

Watch the summary video

Watch the summary video

When God looks at you, how does He see you? If you are a believer, He sees you as perfect. Why? Because of what Jesus Christ accomplished in His death and resurrection. As a believer, God sees your life embodied in His Son. He sees you as having a new identity in Christ.

When you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you instantly become a new creation. The old life, characterized by sin and separation from God, is replaced by a new life in Christ. This is beautifully expressed by the apostle Paul:

“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” This new identity means that believers are now children of God, with a new purpose and direction in life.”  —2 Corinthians 5:17, NLT

The reality is you are very special to God.

God Sees You from a Divine Perspective

When you put your faith in Christ, His righteousness is credited to you. Despite your inherent flaws, God now sees you as righteous because of Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection.

Paul explains:

“God made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in him we would become the righteousness of God.”  —2 Corinthians 5:21

Through faith in Christ, believers are justified, meaning that God sees them as righteous because of Jesus’ righteousness. This forgiveness is not based on the person’s own merits or actions but on the grace of God.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. But they are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.”  — Romans 3:23-24

This is a gift of grace from God and is not something that can be earned.

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.”  —Ephesians 1:7

In Ephesians 1:7, Paul explains that through Christ’s sacrifice, believers are cleansed of their sins and are no longer held accountable for them.

In Christ, believers are no longer enslaved by sin.

“We know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.”  — Romans 6:6-7  

This freedom allows Christians to live their new life empowered by the Holy Spirit, no longer dominated by sinful desires.

Through forgiveness and justification, believers have peace with God.

“Therefore, since we have been declared righteous by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”  — Romans 5:1 

This peace is a result of being reconciled to God and now having a restored relationship with Him.

Forgiveness and new life in Christ also mean the promise of eternal life.

“For this is the way God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”  — John 3:16

This eternal life is a gift from God and is the ultimate expression of His love and grace.

When God looks at you, He sees you through eyes of love, grace, and purpose. His perspective is not limited by human flaws or failures; instead, He views you as His beloved creation, uniquely designed and deeply valued.

God Sees Your Unique Design

God custom-designed you while you were still in your mother’s womb.

The Psalmist exclaims:

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”  —Psalm 139:14, NIV

This verse highlights the uniqueness and intricate design with which God created each one of us. We are not accidents or mistakes; rather, we are intentional creations of God Himself. We find our self-worth in the knowledge that God has uniquely formed us to perfectly fit into His divine plan.

The term “fearfully” in this context means with great reverence and respect, while “wonderfully” means uniquely and marvelously. Together, they convey the idea that God created us with great care and intention, and that we are marvelous works of His hands.

God created each of us with great care and purpose. Every detail of our being, from our physical attributes to our personalities and talents, has been carefully crafted by our Creator. This intentional design underscores the value and worth that each of us holds in God’s eyes.

Each person is a unique creation of God. There is no one else exactly like you. It means that you have a specific role and purpose that only you can fulfill.

“Certainly you made my mind and heart; you wove me together in my mother’s womb.”  —Psalm 139:13

Understanding that you are uniquely designed by God gives you a profound sense of purpose and significance. Your life is part of a greater plan orchestrated by God.

God Sees Your Kingdom Purpose

Our all-powerful, all-wise, and all-loving heavenly Father uniquely equipped you for a specific purpose within His master plan. You exist for a reason.

The apostle Paul explains:

“For we are his workmanship, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared beforehand so we may do them.”  — Ephesians 2:10

God designed your personality, equipped you with certain abilities, gave you a particular family, and placed you in a specific environment. There is nothing random about you. You are God’s masterpiece created to fulfill His purpose.

This means that you have been given everything you need to accomplish the good works that God has planned for you.

God sees you as empowered and equipped to accomplish all you were created to do. He has given you unique gifts and talents to serve others and advance His Kingdom.

“Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of the varied grace of God.”  —1 Peter 4:10

Your life has intrinsic value and significance in God’s eyes. He has a specific plan for you, and your existence is part of His greater design.

“‘For I know what I have planned for you,’ says the Lord. ‘I have plans to prosper you, not to harm you. I have plans to give you a future filled with hope.'”  —Jeremiah 29:11

This realization can transform the way you view yourself and your life, encouraging you to embrace your individuality and live confidently, knowing that you are loved and valued by God.

God Sees You Through Eyes of Love

God loves you and wants a love relationship with you. Because God is love, love permeates His entire being. No one will ever love you more, be as committed to you, or make a greater sacrifice for you.

Jesus proclaimed:

“Just as the Father has loved me, I have also loved you; remain in my love.”  —John 15:9

God’s love is beyond comprehension, and it invites you into an intimate relationship—one that transforms your life and fills your heart with purpose and joy.

“But God demonstrates his own love for us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”  — Romans 5:8

God sees you as His beloved child. Through faith in Christ, you are adopted into His family and given the status of a son or daughter. This relationship is intimate and personal, filled with love and care.

“But to all who have received him—those who believe in his name—he has given the right to become God’s children.”  — John 1:12

God’s love for you is profound and unconditional. He values you immensely and desires a deep, loving relationship with you.

In summary, when God looks at you, He sees you as His beloved child, righteous and redeemed, a masterpiece, loved and valued, forgiven and free, empowered and equipped, with a significant purpose. His perspective is filled with love, grace, and a divine vision of your life.

Embrace God’s vision of you as He reveals more in the pages of His love letter to you — the Bible.

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