In the eleven years that I have been a Christian, I learned the value and relatability of Scripture to my life. This lesson is ongoing, as is any lesson worth learning.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
When I first heard this verse, I was shocked and somewhat confounded that God could love me. In spite of my disbelief that God could love me that much, I decided to give God a chance. I have since learned that God really does love me, no matter how bad I think I am or actually am. All I can do in return is accept His love and let His light shine in my life.
“A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.” Psalm 68:5
In the early years of my faith, I felt rejected and unloved. Not knowing who my real father was, I took great comfort in the concept of God loving a person like me. Since then, I have met my father; however, I will always draw comfort in God’s fatherlike love for His children.
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and discipline.” II Timothy 1:7
I love this verse’s implication. If I am in Christ, I have no reason to fear anything. Shortly after memorizing this verse, I entered into one of many times of chaos in my life. My mother left one boyfriend for another and moved us from one city to another. After my bad experience at a previous school, I felt very nervous about entering a new school system and meeting new people. In addition, I did not trust my mother’s new boyfriend. When I would feel afraid or nervous, I would think about this verse and ask God for the strength that only He could give.
” ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord. ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ “ Jeremiah 29:11
Many consider this verse to be a cliche as well; however, I learned the comfort of this verse at a time when my life needed purpose and comfort. I did question God for a time because I felt that He did not have good plans or if He did, He had a misguided sense of good. However, I learned that God really does have the best in mind. He brought me out of the darkness of depression to a life of happiness. While there are many struggles to come, I know that God does have the best plans.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Proverbs 4:23
I am reminded of the importance protecting my heart. For me, this means to avoid unhealthy or premature relationships. It also means to cultivate the best relationship of all, my relationship with Christ. Only by allowing him to heal my worn and damaged heart will I ever know a healthy, happy life and healthy relationships.
I pray that you will find comfort as I have. God be with you.