John 1:12 (KJV)
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.
Encouragement for Today
This verse is an open door. There is rejection in the world, and sometimes in your own story too. People can label you, bring up your past, or make you feel like you do not count. But John 1:12 says something different: whoever receives Jesus and believes on His name is given a new identity: a child of God.
The word “power” here is not just a feeling. It points to a granted right and a real standing. It is not an accident, and it is not a fragile favor that can disappear at any moment. It is a strong promise. Not because your faith is always strong, but because Jesus is faithful. You do not have to clean yourself up first. You do not have to understand everything first. You may come as you are.
Being a child of God does not mean you will never struggle again. But it does mean you are no longer alone. You belong. You can learn to live from love instead of fear, from grace instead of shame.
And this is for “as many as”: young or old, new to faith or long on the road. If you receive Jesus, God says, “You belong to Me.”
In the church:
- A church community that makes room for healing after failure
- People who do not gossip, but stand beside you
- Baptism or confession of faith that shows: you belong
In society:
- A foster family that gives a child a new home
- A mentor who says, “I’m giving you a new chance”
- A neighbor who welcomes someone who just moved in
This is how God works too: He brings people in, not pushes them out.
Question to Pause and Reflect
Where do you doubt: whether you are truly welcome, whether you are “enough”? What would change if you believed this verse today?
Closing Thought
God does not offer distant religion, but relationship. In Christ you are not only forgiven, you are received.
Take This With You
- In Jesus you receive a new identity: child of God.
- You do not have to earn it; you may receive it.
- Pray simply: “Lord Jesus, I receive Thee. Teach me to live as Thy child.”