Day 9: Adopted and Chosen

“Just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world… having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will.” — Ephesians 1:4–5 (NKJV)

Jesus once told a story about a rebellious son who left home, wasted everything, and came crawling back just hoping to survive. But instead of punishment, the father ran to him. He hugged him, clothed him, and threw a party. Jesus wasn’t just telling a feel-good story—He was revealing the heart of the Father. God doesn’t just forgive the prodigal—He restores him as a son.

Paul makes it personal. He says you were chosen—not tolerated. Adopted—not hired. Long before you breathed your first breath, God planned to bring you into His family. This wasn’t a rescue mission out of pity. It was His pleasure. You didn’t earn His acceptance—you were wanted from the start.

Adoption is a legal declaration of belonging. When God adopted you through Christ, your past lost its power. Your old name was erased. A new identity was written over your life—son, daughter, heir. And the Father who chose you isn’t distant or cold—He delights in you. That changes everything.

But too many believers still live like orphans—unsure if they really belong, afraid they’ll be rejected, always trying to prove their worth. If that’s you, let this truth settle in your heart: You are not a stranger to God—you are family.

You don’t work to be accepted—you work from being accepted.

Today, receive the love that has already been extended to you. Let the Spirit of adoption cry out in your heart, “Abba (Daddy), Father.” You were chosen on purpose and adopted with joy. Stop striving for approval and start living as the deeply loved child of God you are.


Excerpt from Follow Me As I Follow Christ by Kevin Casey. Click Here: Available on Amazon (Kindle & paperback).