Better Words, Better Actions: PraiseLive's 30 Day DevotionalSample

At times I struggle to wrap my heart and head around the thought that God chose me before the beginning of time all because He loves me. When I was younger, I thought that I had to choose God, and then He would put me back. But I had it all wrong. I get tears in my eyes just thinking about this, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you…” It wasn’t because I was a good person or an outstanding citizen or an academic scholar, but because He created me for a purpose and to have a relationship with hHm. I have this impression of Him with His arms wide open, kneeling just waiting for us to run into His arms and respond with a yes to His pursuit.

In my ministry experience, I have often seen that the people who reject His invitation are because they either experienced religion or broken people. That was their lens that they viewed God in--rigid, harsh, unreliable, a fun sucker, absent, and the list goes on. But when people encounter the love of God and see that He has a high value for a relationship, that He is personal, always with us, trustworthy, a promise keeper, and a good God,  they are quick to say yes.

It’s so important that we remain connected to His heartbeat, spend time in the secret place, and allow Him to purify us, heal our hearts, and fill us with His love and presence to represent Him well. We are on a lifelong journey of sanctification, and despite our messiness, He still wants to use us to be His hands and feet and to make disciples. 

Reflection Question: 

Do I genuinely believe that I am enough in God’s eyes, that I am made perfect in His image? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any lies that you believe about who God is.

Praise + Prayer:

Father God, I thank You that You made me in Your image that You chose me before I ever wanted you back. Help me receive all that You have for me so that I can be secure in Your love. Amen.

Action Idea:

Encourage an unbeliever or someone that you are mentoring with one or both of the scripture verses from today’s devotional. Text it to them, write it in a card or speak it over their life.