When I am weak, the normal thing would be to count my blessings, right? But, today in my weakness, I stop to think how many people really love and care about me as an individual, people who know my name, people who are part of my family and some that are friends.

The list is not enormous but enough to make me stronger. This all begins by thinking about GOD’S LOVE for me first and foremost. God is at the top of the list of His love for me. He knows my name. He knows me better than I know me…and loves me still!!! I don’t have to perform tricks for Him or manipulate Him to get Him to love me. I cannot give back what He has given to me. He just loves me–more than I deserve.

GOD LOVES YOU, TOO!

I am encouraged and even made stronger by the God’s Word to John to us this morning. I am camping on only the first verse of this passage in 1 John 3:

“What marvelous love the Father has extended to us! Just look at it–we’re called children of God! That’s who we really are. But that’s also why the world doesn’t recognize us or take us seriously, because it has no idea who he is or what he’s up to. But friend, that’s exactly who we are: children of God.” (Msg)

Breathe in His grace, exhale his praise! We are HIS!

And I’m singing praise and thanks…

How deep the Father’s love for us,
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure

How great the pain of searing loss,
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the chosen One,
Bring many sons to glory

Behold the Man upon a cross,
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice,
Call out among the scoffers

It was my sin that left Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished

I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection

Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom
(REPEAT)

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you. Just thank you. I am Yours and You are mine. In Jesus Name, Amen