In Holy Baptism we have obtained the status of being children of God. He is our Father and we are His children! He will sustain, preserve and provide for us. He will never forsake us. We have also received the righteousness of Jesus Christ. All that Christ has obtained for us by His suffering and death has been given to us and made our own in Holy Baptism. We have truly been united to Him. He is our vine and we are the branches. Through Him we obtain new strength for every good work, light, wisdom and grace. There has been imparted to us the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. He makes His home in us, sanctifies our hearts, governs our tongues and our lips, and enables us to order our lives according to the Word and will of God. By this indwelling power of the Holy Spirit we are more and more drawn away from evil, and we begin to grow in faith, in godliness, and in the fear of God - just like a newborn baby grows in years and strength. We also obtain everlasting salvation! When this life is over, we shall share eternal joy and glory.
"Starck's Prayer Book," pages 22-23
