Read Romans 8:14
The character Superman can fly faster than a speeding bullet and leap tall buildings in a single bound. But Superman uses the alter ego of mild- mannered reporter Clark Kent to veil his true identity. Clark Kent is unobtrusive, wearing inconspicuous clothes—until Superman needs to save the day. Then he hurriedly pulls off his dress shirt to reveal the large “S” emblazoned on Superman’s uniform.
For the rest of our study this month we’ll focus on the ways that we are blessed in Christ. An essential part of our identity is the blessing of the Holy Spirit, who indwells our hearts. Though we might look like everyone else around us, in reality we have the power of God’s Spirit in our lives, shaping our true identity to look more like Jesus. Unlike Superman and Clark Kent, however, we don’t have to keep our true identity a secret.
Our passage today connects themes that we’ve seen throughout our study: life, freedom, the family of God, and the Spirit. When we trust in Christ for the forgiveness of our sins, we are moved from death to life and from slavery to freedom (vv. 10–15). The Holy Spirit guarantees we will have eternal life, raised with new resurrection bodies just as Jesus was, and also gives us spiritual life now so that we are free to choose holiness instead of sin.
The Holy Spirit also confirms our identity as the children of God (vv. 15–17, 23). We know our adoption is certain, even while we wait for the day when we will dwell with God eternally in our resurrected bodies, because of the ministry of the Spirit in our lives. Even when we don’t know how to pray or what to pray for, the Holy Spirit is interceding on our behalf (vv. 26–27)!
APPLY THE WORD
Our true identity as believers indwelt by the Holy Spirit doesn’t mean that we are perfect. It does mean “the Spirit helps us in our weakness” (v. 26). Thank the Lord for His leading in your life, His intercession on your behalf, and His promise for your future. As you go about your day, reflect on the reality of having the Holy Spirit, freeing you to choose holiness.
DAILY DEVOTIONS, NEWS AND INFORMATION 