Held by a Lavish Love

Watch a child run into the arms of someone they trust. They don’t hesitate. They don’t wonder if they belong. They know they are loved. That kind of fearless belonging is what John wants us to understand about God. In 1 John 3:1, he writes, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are.” This is not a future promise. This is your present identity. God has already called you His child.

Yet many of us struggle to live as if that is true. Francis Chan writes in Beloved that we often live as if God’s love applies to everyone else, but not fully to us. Some of us are still trying to earn the love God has already given. We serve, work, and show up—but deep down, we wonder if it’s enough.

But the cross tells a different story.

In Christ, we are not fixer-upper projects God tolerates.

We are children He delights in.

Because of Jesus, you are deeply loved, fully accepted, and forever united with God. Shame no longer defines you. Fear no longer owns you. Striving is no longer your master.

This kind of freedom doesn’t grow by accident. It grows when we intentionally abide in Him—by praying, reading His Word regularly, engaging in worship, and walking closely with other believers. The more you remain in His presence, the more clearly you see His heart. And the more clearly you see His heart, the more secure you become in His love.

What would change this week if you actually believed you were fully loved?

Don’t keep this struggle to yourself. Find a sister you trust. Tell her the truth about where you struggle to believe you are loved. Invite her to pray with you and remind you of what is true.

You are not working toward being loved. You are living from being loved.

Prayer:

Father, help me believe what You have already declared—that I am Your child, fully loved and fully accepted. Teach me to abide in You and to live in the freedom You have given me. Surround me with sisters who will remind me of Your truth. Thank You for delighting in me. Amen