I Am Beloved

Reading the Word truly does "transform" our minds!  As I mentioned in several posts, it took years for me to accept as truth God's love for me.  I was plagued with guilt and shame.   Intimidated by other, more mature Christians, and constantly insecure and fearful; trying to be  perfect and failing miserably.  I thought that if I "cleaned up my act", and looked like I had it together, I would be accepted.  It didn't take long for that way of thinking and living to begin to crumble.  Perfectionism left me exhausted and even more insecure.  It left me in a state of instability and completely joyless.  It caused me to walk away from the One who loves me most.

I believe with all my heart that God allows really painful events to come our way.  Things that truly bring us to the end of ourselves.  I know that He allows these things to bring about good in our lives.  Had I not turned away and back again, I would not have experienced the depth of His love for me and the freedom that has come from knowing that love.  Had I not turned away and back again, I do not think any other event would have brought me to the place of utter confidence in my forgiveness, redemption and security in Christ.  It also made me realize, once and for all, that there is no place in my life for self-sufficiency.  I am not on the throne---He is, and now, I rather like it that way!

As I was studying this morning, I came across the words to an old English Hymn by Catesby Paget.  The words are not only beautiful, but they are my truth.  I have traded my ashes for beauty!  I am His Beloved daughter!

Near, so very near to God,
Nearer I cannot be;
For in the person of his Son
I am as near as He.
So dear, so very dear to God,
More dear I cannot be;
The love wherewith He loves the Son--
Such is His love to me.

These verses say it all.  We, who are in Christ, are so perfectly loved!  Be blessed today!