A Child of the King

“The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.”—Romans 8:16–17

In 1876 Harriet E. Buell (Hattie) traveled to Thousand Island Park in New York to attend a Bible conference where she heard a speaker describe being an heir of God. “Christian friends,” he cried, “we are the children of a King!”

These words made a dramatic impact on Buell who soon wrote a poem inspired by the message. It was called “A Child of the King.” When the poem was published, it attracted the attention of John Sumner who added music to the poem, creating a powerful hymn.

Buell describes her realization that “My Father is rich in houses and lands.” He holds “the wealth of the world in His hands!” He has riches untold, and His “coffers are full” of rubies, diamonds, silver, and gold.

What amazed her was that she was a child of the King and that Jesus was her Savior. Looking at her own life, she realized she was once an outcast stranger, “A sinner by choice, an alien by birth.” But thanks to Jesus, she had been adopted into God’s family, and she was “an heir to a mansion, a robe, and a crown.”

She knew He would provide for her on earth but also was preparing a palace for her where she would spend eternity. She could sing, “All glory to God, I’m a child of the King.”

Remember that you are a child of the King!

Reflection Question: What difference should knowing you’re a child of the King make in your life?