Already Proud Of Me

Already Proud of Me

What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?

Several years ago I began speaking in front of women’s groups. This was not something that came naturally to me, as I am an introvert. Before these speaking events I would pray and ask God for wisdom and help, almost begging him to help me not screw up or make a fool of myself. I’d end my prayer by saying, “I just want to make you proud.”

Inevitably, I’d get up, give my talk, and immediately sit down and think about all that I did wrong and what I could have improved. I’d find myself apologizing to God, promising that next time, I’d do better. This went on for a year or two until I was asked to speak on the love of God.

As I was preparing, I began to see God’s love toward me in a new way. A picture came to my mind of God sitting in the crowd I was about to speak in front of with a smile on his face, already proud of me before I’d ever said one word. In that moment, I felt his love like I hadn’t before, and it struck me that I had nothing to prove, that God loved me fully, just as I was—if I messed up or not, if people liked what I said or not, if it came out perfectly or not—he was already proud of me simply for being obedient. This truth of God’s love for me has transformed not only the way I speak but other areas of my life as well. I am braver now that I understand the truth and the depth of his love for me.

It is much easier to welcome others in and extend friendship when we fully know we’ve been included by God. Accepted and loved. Forgiven and free. We’ll want for those around us what we ourselves know we have available to us in Christ. There is no fear in love because if God is for us, who could ever be against us? Accepting his love allows us to offer friendship to others as well. How have you experienced God’s love and friendship toward you?

— Kendra

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Thank God for his friendship and love for you.