We All Need Reminding

How we see ourselves, the stories we tell ourselves about where we fit into the bigger picture, the comparisons we make between ourselves and others, the degree to which our past failures and present foibles weigh on our minds, all have a massive impact on our lives – on our sense of wellbeing, on our relationships and on the degree to which we fulfill our potential. Wouldn't you agree?

If I had a dollar for every time I disobeyed my parents, every time I disappointed them, every time I cut corners in honouring them, I tell you, I'd be rich. How about you? And yet, just a couple of years back, when my 93 year old mother was in her final days the one person she wanted to see was me.

Even though she'd been unconscious for almost two weeks, she awoke on her penultimate day and asked for me by name. What does that tell you about the power of love, hmm?

As we puddle along through life, doing some good things, making mistakes as well (as we all do), deciding on how we compare and where we fit in, what we're not so good at … how easy is it to lose sight of the love that surrounds us?

King David – who had made so many terrible mistakes – praying to God said this:

Psalm 86:5 For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. (ESV)

You know, I think that's something we all need reminding of on a regular basis. Perhaps some along the way have rejected you. Perhaps you feel that you've never quite reached your full potential. But remember this:

The Lord is good and forgiving, abounding – abounding! – in steadfast, unshakable, unfailing love toward all who call upon Him.

That's His Word. Fresh … for you … today.