Shattering Toxic Beliefs And Discovering The Real Youنموونە

Jerusha Clark:  Shattering Toxic Beliefs and Discovering the Real You  Devotional Day 4

The Prayer of Belovedness

Scripture: Isaiah 43:1-7

Today I invite you to practice what you might call “the prayer of belovedness.” As you do so, remember that this is no formula, but rather a guide to direct your thoughts in the presence of God. 

Here’s how it works. Spend some time locating three (or more) verses that speak of God’s love for you. You might use Isaiah 43, Jeremiah 31:3, or Isaiah 54:10, though I highly encourage you to discover your own as well. If you’re new to a process like this, using a concordance or an online Bible search tool to look up “God’s love” can be a tremendous help. 

Now slowly read the verses you’ve selected. Reread them out loud, placing your name in the verse. We can practice this right now using the first seven verses of Isaiah 43: “This is what the Lord says—he who created you, _______________, he who formed you. ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; ______________, I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. . . . ______________, you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life.” Listen to the words as you read them. You can say something in response such as, “Thank you, Lord, for speaking this to me and about me. I claim this to be true because you are true.” 

You have just prayed the prayer of belovedness. By receiving God’s Word into your mind and heart, by responding with thankfulness and affirming his truth, you have worshiped the Great I AM.

Your feelings about yourself may not change immediately. God is producing spiritual fruit in you that may—indeed, likely will—take time to ripen. I encourage you to practice the prayer of belovedness often, to make it a habit. His truth can become to you like a fount of living water, refreshing your soul. His well never runs dry. 

What words of identity do you believe God wants you to embrace about yourself?