The following comes from my monthly devotional book, “The Word for You Today” from September 22nd devotion.
THE ULTIMATE SELF-ESTEEM!
“Perfect Love Casts out Fear” 1 John 4:18 NKJV
“Since God’s love is the only “perfect” love, it removes our fears. What are you afraid of? That you won’t get something you need or that you’ll lose something you’ve got? “His perfect love for us eliminated all dread…If we are afraid, it … shows that we are not fully convinced that he really loves us” (1Jn4:18 TLB). Today, ask God to give you a fresh understanding of how much He loves you, for what He loves He prized, protects, and provides for.
We are drawn to people who love us, so why is it so difficult for us to go to God in prayer? It’s because we need a fresh understanding of His love for us! Paul writes: “[I pray]…that…you’ll be able to take in…the extravagant dimensions of Christ’s love” (Eph 3:18TM). Extravagant love! God couldn’t love you any more than He does right now! You say, “What does God’s love look like?” Look at the cross. If you had been the only person who ever lived. Jesus would have died just for you. “What does God’s love cost me?” you ask. It comes with no strings attached. You didn’t do anything to deserve it, so when you fail you don’t forfeit it. He never stops loving you! The Bible says: “Absolutely nothing can get between us and God’s love” (Ro 8:39 TM).
Once you’re secure in God’s love you can begin to acknowledge your weaknesses, seek His help, grow strong, and use the gifts He’s given you. When you know God loves you based on who you are, not the color of your skin or your life’s accomplishments, you have the ultimate self-esteem – born of God’s esteem for you.”
Father, God, Holy is your name. Awesome in your strength a power. You and you alone are worthy of my praise and adoration. Thank you for the reminder in the devotion that I can be secure in Your love and therefore know that my every need you will provide. Father I lift up those reading this that don’t know Your perfect love. Father I pray that they will ask You to reveal Yourself to them in a way that only You can. In Jesus’ perfect, power, holy name I pray. Amen
2 comments:
JC - awesome post - great message.
Love you, Bethy
Jennifer- I had to come visit you since you came all the way to Utah to visit me. I had no idea about the BATW visit but so needed it today. Thanks for your kind words and affirmation that we can do better.
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