Beloved, we are God's children now.
1 John 3:2 (ESV)
BELOVED. That’s God’s name for us: His “Beloved”! Unfortunately this beautiful word isn’t in every Bible translation, but it should be. It comes from the Greek word “agapétos,” which means beloved, esteemed, dear, favorite, and worthy of love. That’s how He has identified us. He has named us, and no amount of self-doubt, comparison, or thoughts that scream otherwise can change that truth.
Sometimes people call us names: either names that encourage us and make us stand up a little taller, or names that sting and cause us to shrink back and want to hide. Good or bad, we hold them close, because they seep into our hearts, and they have the power to shape us if we let them. But God says we are His Beloved, and in that name there is powerful truth, unfailing love, and oh so much grace! The God of the universe, the same God who spoke us into being and enjoys dazzling us with breathtaking sunsets and glorious rainbows, has chosen to love us—not because of who we are, but because of who HE is. Our role is simply to BE-LOVED. Because when we are loved, then we can BE-LOVE to others, and that is exactly what we are called to do.
us stand up a little taller, or names that sting and cause us to shrink back and want to hide. Good or bad, we hold them close, because they seep into our hearts, and they have the power to shape us if we let them. But God says we are His Beloved, and in that name there is powerful truth, unfailing love, and oh so much grace! The God of the universe, the same God who spoke us into being and enjoys dazzling us with breathtaking sunsets and glorious rainbows, has chosen to love us—not because of who we are, but because of who HE is. Our role is simply to BE-LOVED. Because when we are loved, then we can BE-LOVE to others, and that is exactly what we are called to do.
Whether you perceive them as positive or negative, you may feel you have somehow earned the names others call you, or the ones you call yourself. But with God, you are already His Beloved! There is nothing to earn and there is nothing to live up to, so you can let go of all the others. Your true identity was given by the One who created you, and He has every right to name His own glorious creations. Let “Beloved” seep into your heart. Let it shape your days, your life, and your relationships. You don’t have to do anything, except maybe whisper “thank you”. Then tell Him you accept His name for you, and that you love Him, too! You are loved!