Catechism: Discipleship And Our Whole SelfSample

Rules without relationship lead to rebellion.

You've probably encountered someone who just demanded a behavior without offering you the support or even feedback to achieve it.

From Genesis to Revelation, God's story is one of relationship and then, after the fall, the redemption and restoration necessary to make relationships possible.

Stop for a minute and ask yourself honestly, “Is there an obstacle in my relationship with God?” and then a second question, “Is this a true obstacle, or is it based on a misunderstanding of who God is or who He considers me to be?”

The Bible is clear.

The truth will indeed set you free.

Today, is there anything that keeps you from experiencing the totality of God's love for you? Feelings of shame, unworthiness, and guilt from the past start to fade in light of the truth of God's Word.

What if the truth was that God was too busy loving you to be disappointed in you?

What if He longs for you to be honest with Him about your genuine thoughts and feelings rather than a carefully curated image you present to everyone else?

The truth is that you are already fully known, totally accepted, and completely loved by God.

Right now.

Not when you “get better.”

Not when your circumstances change.

Not when you live up to someone's definition of what a Christian should be.

Right now.

Yes, He is changing you. He is transforming you. He is growing you up in Jesus. But none of your maturing makes Him love you one bit more. You are already totally lovable in His eyes.

Let that sink in and then let it change your life.

• What is one thing that will shift in your life as you choose to live as one loved by God? What will drop away? What will be added?
• What can you do right now to reflect that you know God’s promises are true about His love for you and His power to mature you? What is your response to God?