A Child of God
Bible verse of the day - 1 John 3:1
NIV (New International Version):
"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him."
KJV (King James Version):
"Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not."
NKJV (New King James Version):
"Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him."
NLT (New Living Translation):
"See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him."
ESV (English Standard Version):
"See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him."
MSG (The Message):
"What marvelous love the Father has extended to us! Just look at it—we’re called children of God! That’s who we really are. But that’s also why the world doesn’t recognize us or take us seriously, because it has no idea who he is or what he’s up to."
What we learn
From 1 John 3:1, we learn several powerful truths about God’s love and our identity:
1. God’s Love is Extraordinary
The verse emphasizes the greatness of God’s love, using phrases like “lavished,” “bestowed,” or “extended.” This shows that God’s love is not ordinary but abundant, selfless, and deeply personal.
2. Our Identity as God’s Children
Because of God’s love, we are called His children. This is not just a title but a reality of who we are. It speaks to the intimacy and relational nature of God as our Father.
3. The World’s Lack of Understanding
The world doesn’t recognize or understand our identity in Christ because it does not know God. This reminds us that our lives, values, and purpose may seem foreign or even rejected by those who do not share our faith.
4. God’s Grace is Unconditional
We are called children of God not because of anything we’ve done but because of His grace and love. This truth encourages us to rest in the assurance of His acceptance.
5. Our Lives Should Reflect This Identity
Being God’s children calls us to live differently, embracing His love and reflecting it in how we treat others.
Reflection
Take a moment to pause and let the reality of God’s love sink in. The Creator of the universe has not only loved us but has chosen to call us His children. This is a love that is undeserved, unconditional, and unmatched. It’s a love that redefines who we are—not as broken, rejected, or insignificant—but as cherished, known, and deeply valued by the Father.
Yet, as children of God, we may often feel like strangers in the world. This can be discouraging, but it’s a reminder that our true home and identity lie in God. The world’s inability to understand us is not a sign of failure but evidence that our lives are aligned with a higher purpose.
This verse also challenges us to live with confidence and gratitude. If we are truly children of God, how should that change how we see ourselves, how we treat others, and how we walk through challenges? Let this truth renew your perspective and strengthen your faith. You are loved by the Father, known by Him, and called to reflect His glory in a world that so desperately needs His love.
Today, rest in the knowledge that you are deeply loved and intentionally chosen. Let that truth shape your heart and guide your actions.

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