My sweet Momma made a statement to me on the phone recently that my mind replayed throughout the day. Her words were full of encouragement: “You are brave, you are sweet, you are smart, and you are loved.” Hearing this list of affirming values from one who has always given me unconditional love struck a tender chord. Sometimes I don’t feel brave, sweet, or smart -but I always know that I am loved.
What image comes to your mind when you hear the word “brave”? The dictionary definition depicts one who is ready to face and endure danger or pain or show courage. The verb form goes a little farther: “to endure or face (unpleasant conditions or behavior) without showing fear. Brave isn’t an adjective I would have chosen to describe myself, but it is one that I aspire to earn.
There are many sweet people in my life, but I suspect we all have times when “sweet” might not be an accurate description of our thoughts or actions. Who could always be “pleasing in general; delightful”? I fear the salty, sour, and bitter comes out of all of us sometimes; I know it does for me.
Smart? Well, “smart” is somewhat relative. You can be street smart, book smart, math smart, a “smarty pants,” or a thousand other “smarts.” Webster defines smart as “having or showing a quick-witted intelligence.” Once again, “smart” might not be an adjective to describe me on any given day.
Then, there is love. Mom’s beautiful expression of her tender love reminded me of an even greater love: God’s love. Scripture has a lot to say about how our Heavenly Father adores his children. One beautiful passage that captures the heart of it is found in 1 John. Love is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ.
“In this, the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 John 4:9-10
Praise God for the everlasting and unconditional love expressed through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He affirms our value from eternity to eternity and will soon return to take us home.
When you experience the rough days that you don’t feel particularly brave, sweet, or smart, it’s okay. Remember, you are eternally and perfectly loved.
Charlene Miller
Lean into Jesus Ministries
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
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