Our youngest son has always had an obsession with the military. When he was little, he continually wanted to dress in camo and play with toy soldiers. As he has grown older, the interest in all things military has not wavered much. He is halfway through high school now, and we are talking about what the future may hold for him. He shared recently that he is still interested in pursuing the military, specifically the Marines. I asked him what the draw is. Our son has spent his whole life in West Africa, and we wonder what makes him feel like this is the best choice? He quickly answered that it wasn’t about being patriotic or how he feels about America. It was about belonging. He wants to belong to a group of people who work together and care for each other. He wants camaraderie, loves teamwork and wants to belong to a group of guys working together. He loves the idea of belonging together with others.

As people, we are designed for community and belonging. We may find that connection in our families, our work, our neighborhood, or our church. But there is something within us that wants to connect with other people, to not just go through life alone. While there are plenty of positive places that we can look for this connection or identity, there is no greater place to find belonging than in our relationship with Christ. Unlike other groups we may be a part of, in Christ, we will never be left out, forgotten, treated unfairly, or judged. Our belonging to Christ comes from a personal relationship with Him and it is perfect and steady.

The Bible has a lot to say about your belonging.

1 Peter 2:9 We belong to God and are set apart of a purpose

Ephesians 2:19 Because of Christ we are not outsiders, but full members of Gods family

Romans 8:16 I am a full child of God

1 John 3:1 God has shown His love to me by calling me His child

Jeremiah 1:5 My identity and purpose were known to God even before I was born

It is guaranteed that in my life, I am not always going to feel a sense of belonging in every group or place I find myself. Due to culture, language, priorities, preferences, beliefs, or all kinds of potential issues, I may often find myself in places where “belonging” is an anomaly.

Thankfully, God and the truths of His word never change. No matter where I am in the world, and what group I may or may not find myself a part of, my connection with God never needs to change. He lovingly chose me and fully embraces me. I belong to God and He belongs to me.