April 29, 2021
The Chosen Baby
Mary Southerland
Today's Truth
Before I made you in your mother's womb, I chose you (Jeremiah 1:5, NCV).
Friend to Friend
Beginnings are very important. In fact, the place of origin has much to do with the quality of the journey as well as the final destination. My journey – like yours – began in the heart and mind of God. Before I took even one breath, God loved and planned me. That same truth applies to you. You are neither an accident nor a mistake. You and I were created in response to the love and plan of God.
The power of Jeremiah 1:5 has changed my life!
Before I made you in your mother's womb, I chose you (Jeremiah 1:5, NCV).
God Himself supervised our formation. Wow! That just rocks my world. Think about that truth for a moment. We were created – not to be a puppet – but for an intimate relationship with God. God never has to say “oops.” and then try figure out something for us to do. God shaped a unique plan for your life and for my life and He then created us in response to that plan. The plan came first!
When our son, Jered, was four years old, we enrolled him in a church daycare two days each week. Jered loved to play with other children and always seemed to get along with everyone - which is why I was surprised when his teacher asked me to come in for a conference. In fact, when my husband came home and I nervously told him about the phone call, he stopped me and said, "Honey, how bad can it be? It's Jered and he is only four years old." Good point.
Jered's teacher met me at the check-in desk and led me back to her classroom. “Jered is a wonderful little boy,” she began, “but there is one problem. How long has Jered known he was adopted?” I was still clueless about what that question had to do with the problem, but answered, “Since he began talking. We have told Jered repeatedly how special he is and that he is a chosen baby.” She smiled and went on to explain that Jered had told the other children that he was special because he was adopted. In fact, Jered informed each child that his mom and dad had chosen him – while their parents “got stuck” with them.
God loves you. He paid for your sin. God defined His unconditional and relentless love when He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to earth as a baby. And Jesus said, “Yes!” What an amazing gift! The love of God for us compelled Jesus Christ to willingly exchange a throne for a manger, divinity for humanity, and Heaven for Earth.
John 3:16 (NIV) “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
God’s love changes everything and everyone who receives it. God’s love protects and breathes life and purpose into every minute of every day. God’s love is a gift beyond measure that surrounds us and covers us.
Don’t believe the lies of the enemy when he tells you that your God has forsaken you. God is with you – Emmanuel. He endured the cross, completely and absolutely alone because He loves you. No one can take your place in the Father’s heart. God knows your pain and He understands. God created you and paid for your sin for one reason alone – He loves you. Not because you are so lovable but because He is love.
When we begin to understand and live out the eternal truth that we are loved, planned, wanted and chosen by God, His plan and purpose will naturally unfold before us each day. In His eyes, you are special!
Let's Pray
Father, I want to know You and find Your plan for my life. Today, by faith, I choose to see myself through Your eyes. Please help me live each day in the knowledge that I belong to You and am Your chosen child.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Now It's Your Turn
Do you really believe God loves you unconditionally?
Read Psalm 139 each day for one month. Record the new truths that you learn, the changes in your perspective and any fresh insights for your life journey. At the end of the month, write Psalm 139 in your own words and share it with a friend.
More from the Girlfriends
The enemy wants you to believe God does not love you. Satan knows just how powerful that kind of love is; and he doesn’t have a single weapon that can stand against it. Choose to believe God's Word and step out in faith. He will meet you there.
© 2021 by Mary Southerland. All rights reserved.
