December 2

Look with wonder at the depth of the Father’s marvellous love that he has lavished on us! He has called us and made us his very own  beloved  children. The reason the world doesn’t recognize who we are is that they didn’t recognize him". 1 John 3:1 (TPT)

Dear heart, these words of promise and life, are for you! You are loved by God the Father as His very own deeply cherished child. You are safe in the care of Christ Jesus, your passionate Redeemer and Friend. And the precious Holy Spirit of the living God Himself, is with you always. This is all for you—right now, right where you are! God is lavishing His love upon you, in the midst of all you are in—lavishing His healing and redemption over all past shame, sorrow, and sin.

Good days ahead or bad days behind—it will all be okay. “Fear not”, He says, for you are covered in His tender care, surrounded by His shield of grace. Not only does He have you firmly in His grip of grace; He has all things concerning you too. The One Who cannot lie, promises it will be so, for all mankind, for all who will believe. Chosen one, simply receive.

In this month that can push us to rush and to race, lean instead into His arms of redeeming grace, and rest, dear one. Just be! Trust the Holy Spirit, your ever-present help and believe—even if you do not see. It is all coming together just the way it should. He would not have it otherwise! Love, acceptance, belonging, hope, healing, and help are already here. Because Jesus is with you, in the fullness of His glory, and because you belong to Him, He is always and forever near.

Oh, beloved child of God, the depth of His marvelous love for you is endless! There is joy unspeakable in the wonder of who He is, and joy unspeakable in who He created you to be! 

Prayer:

Dearest Father, You alone know the pain of the past, the wounds I have endured. The times I have felt isolated or alone, in family, or because of family, living in lack, instead of in the midst of Your lavish love.

Jesus, would you help me today to know, beyond a shadow of doubt, that I am a child of God, that I belong to God’s holy family, and that He will care for me always, as a loving Father does?

Would you help me to know and experience the depth of His lavish love, so that I may settle into this transforming truth, rest and abide in my place in You, and in the world, and walk out all of my days according to Your ways?

Lord, Your nurturing love is tender and gentle. Show me how much You love me today, Lord. Show me that I am Yours.

With joyful expectation, I pray.