"Take heart." I love that phrase. It is defined as a statement of encouragement, of telling one to take comfort or confidence in what has been said or is about to be said. In the gospel of John we see Jesus share this same sentiment with His disciples:
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
I don't know if I've read a much more comforting statement than that: although while here we will face troubles and trials, we can have a deep peace and a confident hope because Jesus overcame the world.
I've been asking God to show me His love for me as I mature in making Him the only one who sustains me and defines me. My amazing sister sent me this verse this morning and what a beautiful reminder of God's love. I can be confident and comforted because He overcame the world. And He did that for me, for all of us, because He loves us with a love so deep that nothing can separate us from it.
If the God of the universe, the creator of all things, loves me than what is there to fear? How can I not respond with a humble heart and a desire to know Him more and to surrender all? How can I not in turn show that love and grace to a world so desperately looking for hope and for healing?
I took the above picture from a blog I read by a woman who speaks life into the hearts of others. Her most recent post was written as a letter showing the deep assurance we have because of our Father, the one who fights for us. I highly suggest reading it, whether you're going through a hard day or know someone who is: http://holleygerth.com/whats-true-for-you-no-matter-what-happens-coffee-for-your-heart/
Here is just a quick snippet that I hope reminds you of how truly loved you are and that you can stand strong:
You’ve been fighting a hard battle. Behind closed doors, within the quietness of your heart, in the hours when it seems the rest of the world is sleeping. You are a warrior, my friend. A woman of courage. Yes, you. The one who sometimes feels weak. The one who wonders if she will ever prevail. The one whose hand trembles on the sword sometimes . . . .Stand strong, friend. Keep fighting. Refuse to let fear win. Never yield an inch to the enemy. You stand on holy ground, and no one can take what’s yours. Not now. Not ever. You’re going to be okay because you’ve already won forever." ~Holley Gerth
As you look forward to and celebrate Valentine's Day tomorrow, may you feel so incredibly loved. May you rest in the fact that the One who knows you more than you know yourself, loves every bit of you and created you with a purpose.
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