Scripture
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by Him we cry “Abba, Father”

Observation
Our adoption into God's family and our death to the old nature gives us the opportunity, or obligation even, to put away the deeds of the flesh. In doing that, we show that we really do have the Spirit of God, and therefore are sons of God.

God's Spirit testifies with our spirit that we truly are God's children.

If we suffer I this life, that is nothing compared to the glory we share in for eternity. Creation is suffering because of sin and it is awaiting its liberation.

Application
Paul is telling us that we need to lift our sights way above where we are right now. We need to get the big picture.

1. God has set us free from sin and given us a new nature. We need to live in that new nature and not give in to sin.

2. We are destined for eternal life. What we endure or enjoy now is just a flicker in the scale of eternity. Look to eternity and not just the present.

3. The whole of creation is waiting to be set free. My salvation influences the whole of the universe.

We will share in the glory of our Lord if we remain faithful to Him.

Prayer
Lord please renew my mind so that I see all of my life through the lens of eternity. Amen.