Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity With Jennifer Slatteryنموونە

You are held secure.

Frequently feeling abandoned as a child challenged Will’s ability to trust God to remain close when he didn’t live and love as Christ instructed. But then he became a father, and suddenly, he better understood God’s heart.

One year, his family moved across the country. This left his eight-year-old daughter feeling unsettled, lonely, and confused. Suddenly, their cheerful and giggly seven-year-old became withdrawn and angry.

Then one day, while upset, she yelled, “I hate you!” then slammed her bedroom door.

This broke his heart, but not because he felt attacked.

He saw the pain beneath her words and longed to draw her near and hold her close.

I’ve had times when I’ve displayed a similar response toward God as Will’s daughter did to him, and I suspect I likely will again. Times when the intensity of my sorrow or fear caused me to lash out at the One who always loves me well. Perhaps you can relate. If so, know this: your anger or despair don’t repel God. The intensity of your emotions won’t drive Him away.

He will always move toward you, and His love holds you secure.

Journal Prompts:

What does being held secure mean to you on days when you don’t act or react as you desire? How does it feel to know that God is always moving toward, and never from you? If this feels difficult to accept, ask God to show you how past wounding is impacting your ability to receive this truth.