We grieve over the neglect and abuse of unwanted, orphaned children. Fortunately, some are adopted by loving families.

Adoption means becoming part of a family and having a sense of belonging.

In a similar way, the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Adoption.

“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, Abba, Father.’ The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children” (Romans 8:15-16).

Someone said, “Adoption is when you love someone, and you ask them to come and live with you.”

God loves us, and he has adopted us as his own sons and daughters. He asked you and I to come and live with him!

The Holy Spirit of Adoption enables us to see and know and cry out to God as our heavenly Father! Instead of cowering in slave-like fear before God, we approach God in a close and personal way!

Notice the different workings of the Holy Spirit between regeneration and adoption.

Through regeneration, the Holy Spirit brings you into spiritual birth as a child of God.

Through adoption, the Holy Spirit brings you immediately into the family of God.

Believing in Christ, the Holy Spirit of Adoption certifies, affirms, and assures you that you are a genuine son or daughter of God. You received the “Spirit of full acceptance”, no longer an orphan, enfolding you into the family of God.

Through regeneration, the Holy Spirit gives you a new nature.

Through adoption, the Holy Spirit gives you all the rights and privileges as a child of God in the family of God. All your spiritual debts are canceled. All spiritual blessings you receive.

“God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts,” so that the Spirit first rises up within us saying, “Abba, Father” (Galatians 4:6). Then our inner being joins the Spirit in saying the same with tender affection, “Beloved Father!” (Romans 8:16).

An older woman in one of our churches always prayed addressing God as “Loving Father.”

Whatever your need, cry out, “Father, help me!” Be assured that God will help you, because God loves you as his adopted child.