a guest blog by Stephanie Crider Files
Names are important. Biblically speaking God places high regard on names. He gave many people names, and even changing people's names to reflect events in their lives. So when someone crosses your path with the same name as you, does it make you feel differently toward them? For me, it does. If I see the checkout girl's name tag reads, "Stephanie" I make sure I smile at her. Likewise, when I found a professor of Russ's classes with the last name "Crider" I felt an instant connection. We don't know if we're related through genealogy or not, but we are assured of our relation through our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Jesus is the bridge that connects us as brother and sister. His name has the power to unite us all. "For there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12 NASB. He gives us His name, His grace, and His inheritance. "The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs - heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." Romans 8:16-17 NIV. He makes us a family. So today, let me ask you to ponder the following hymn and ask you "Are you a part of the Family of God?" Seek Him, Know Him! He is everything you are searching for and in His name is awesome power!!
The Family of God
William and Gloria Gaither
I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God
I've been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood!
Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod;
For I'm part of the family, the family of God.
I know, for me, personally I AM SO GLAD I'm a part of the family of God. Being part of that family makes my own family so much stronger! Being part of that family means meeting other members of the family and having an instant connection and love for one another. Being part of that family has changed my life forever!!!
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