Read: Romans 8:14-17; 9:25-26

Sophie sat on the kitchen floor petting her new golden retriever puppy while Mom snapped the stems off green beans. “Mom, you’ll never guess what happened today,” Sophie said. “Mira told our class she’s a real-life princess.”

Mom let out a little chuckle, but when she looked at her daughter’s face she could tell Sophie was serious.

“Don’t you think that’s a little—foolish?” asked Sophie. “I mean, we’re not little kids anymore.”

“Oh, honey, I’m sure she was just kidding,” said Mom.

“No, she means it!” Sophie insisted. “She said that since God is her Father that makes her a real princess. She was calling herself Princess Mira!”

“Hmm,” said Mom. “You know, it may not be as foolish as it sounds.”

Sophie raised her eyebrows and tilted her head down. She couldn’t believe what her mom was saying.

“It reminds me of Goldie,” added Mom. “Some people might not accept Goldie as her real name.”

“What?” asked Sophie in disbelief. She looked down at the sleeping puppy curled up in her lap and stroked her soft golden fur. “But that’s what we named her!”

“Well, when Goldie was rescued by the animal shelter, what did they call her?” asked Mom.

Sophie thought a moment. “Molly,” she answered.

“Right. Just like Molly’s name changed when we adopted her, our name also changes when we’re adopted into God’s family. In the Bible, God says, ‘Those who were not my people, I will now call my people.’ And do you know what He says next?”

Sophie shook her head. “No, what?”

“The very next verse says that ‘they will be called children of the living God,’” said Mom. “I think Mira has figured something out—something really special. When she trusted Jesus as her Savior, she was adopted into God’s family. Just like Molly was adopted into ours and—”

“And became Goldie!” Sophie gently removed the sleeping dog from her lap. “Well, you and Goldie will have to excuse me—this princess has homework to finish!”

–Nichole Gatten

How about you? Have you been adopted by God? Have you become part of His family by trusting in Jesus? If so, you are now one of His children. Your heavenly Father has given you a new name and a new life! If you’re not yet one of God’s children, you can be adopted through Jesus, who sacrificed His life to save you and welcome you into His family. Trust in Him today! (To learn more, go to Have You Heard the Good News?)

Today's Key Verse: You received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15 (NLT)

Today's Key Thought: Embrace your new name