Another Day

A new concept:

Interestingly enough, Abba's Child has been somewhat of a tough read for me. It can be tough with an onslaught of accusations coming my way to really focus on God's love and acceptance, but perhaps this is how Joseph felt when thrown in the pit by his brothers who were so angry at his pious ways. Not sure?

Anyhow, somehow Joseph, flawed as he was, pulled himself up by his bootstraps and did what was right. And, ended up loving the ones who hurt him deeply unfolding years of pain in his life. And, as Beth Moore points out so well, Joseph was not perfect - he was perfectly annoying prancing around in his colorful coat acting as though he was the "little prince". He wasn't completely innocent, and perhaps being thrown into the pit helped him grow out of that snotty brat into a God loving person who could show grace upon his "enemies". Not sure. All I know is the Bible says, "love your enemies and do good to those that hurt you".

Well, while it would be easy to focus on the accusations, I just can't. It isn't a healthy route. My life belongs to God, and I must choose hour by hour to focus on His truth. As long as I am not harboring any lies, I can walk forward with confidence. Not free of pain or guilt or struggles, but confidence knowing that the hammer is not about to fall. Without fear that I am about to be found out.

Better to fall before God as rotten as I am and accept who I am in Him. Better to be authentic even if it means exposing that I am not perfect and without blame for any drama that has befallen me.

An excerpt from Abba's Child by Brennan Manning:

Then he states something that I will ponder for years; he says it very deliberately. I ask him to repeat it so that I can write it down. "John, the heart of it is this: to make the Lord and his immense love for you constitutive of your personal worth. Define yourself radically as one beloved by God. God's love for you and his choice of you constitute your worth. Accept that, and let it become the most important thing in your life."

We discuss it. The basis of my personal worth is not my possessions, my talents, not esteem of others, reputation...not kudos of appreciation from parents and kids, not applause, and everyone telling you how important you are to the place...I stand anchored now in God before whom I stand naked, this God who tells me "You are my son, my beloved one."

You, just as is every other believer, are my FAVORITE child. Ponder that.

I am not by any means in this place yet, but oh how wonderful it will be when I can get past my pride and grab on to God's love.