"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God."

Romans 8:14-16 (NKJV)

 

Where did the idea that we could live the Christian life without having a close and personal relationship with our God come from? This turns you into a spiritual orphan. God in Christ promises not to abandon us as orphans (John 14:18). He has placed the Spirit of His Son in our hearts (Galatians 4:6) to reveal who He truly is and who we truly are to Him.

The Holy Spirit did not come to make us slaves to God, but sons of God. His work is to create such intimacy that we can address God as “Abba”. Abba is an Aramaic word that means "father" and refers to a close and personal relationship between a child and his father.

Even though we are God's children, we can behave like orphans. Failure to recognise the legitimacy of your sonship can stifle your growth and interfere your relationship with God. You will struggle with a slavish mentality, fearing God rather than loving him. This leads to feelings of inadequacy and failure because you believe God is unhappy and disappointed with you.

Set your heart on becoming the son or daughter that God created and predestined you to be in Christ. Resting your love and faith in a good and righteous Father changes the way you pray and minister, as well as how you perceive circumstances.

If you are suffering from an orphan spirit, allow His Spirit to correct and heal your false perceptions and expectations. Knowing who you are and what you have in Christ leads to godly contentment and gratitude.