According to this passage, who is the one who can face the world with courage and hope? Who is the one who can live a life of faithfulness using Jesus as a model? Who has the strength to push through life’s difficulties? Who can be a force of positive change in the world around them? Who can rest securely and peacefully in mercy and grace? The one who believes in Jesus as the full embodiment of God’s love. Each of us can be that person no matter our missteps or our insecurities. Because we have been loved fully by God through Jesus, we have the capacity to follow the command to love God, others, and ourselves in the same way.
Think of a fear or an insecurity that feels insurmountable to you. How would fully embracing your identity as God’s beloved affect your ability to overcome?
Today, whenever you feel doubt, fear, or self-criticism creeping in, sing (out loud or in your head), “Jesus loves me, this I know. For the Bible tells me so.” At the end of the day, reflect on the impact this practice has on your spirit. Bonus points: if you are dealing with someone who frustrates you, sing “Jesus loves (person’s name), this I know. For the Bible tells me so.”
