Do You love me? — 2016.01.23

Do You love me? — 2016.01.23

Jesus asks: Do you love me?
John 21, 17

Last night I was sitting comfortably by the stove and so thought to myself I would pray there. Then came up in me the feeling that I did not really love God and Jesus. Jesus has done sooooo much for me, but I did not surrender myself completely to him; – I cringe somehow. Where is my love and devotion to the Lord who has redeemed me?
And I think of Jesus’ question to Peter: Do you love me?
How fortunate that Jesus knows my heart! He knows and has always known that my love for Him is very weak, small and limited! With a little teary-eyed and much sadness I asked the Lord to help me. I will not shy away from him, have no fear of Him, but love Him with all my heart!!
Then I remembered another Verse: Love casts out fear Yes, love of God is so patient and kind, that it overcomes my fear of Him. Through constant love breaks my resistance and slowly makes my confidence grows. His love kindled my love. Even if it is just like a smoldering wick He will rekindle the flame.
The Holy Spirit is acting in my heart. It molds and lets my faith and love grows. I will trust him that he will do what I cannot: love God.
If I stay sitting quietly, the Spirit of God cannot lead me. Because direction requires movement. Only when I go can He guide me. Yes, Lord, I will put myself in motion and not in remain in my current situation. You will take me to new horizons!
Jesus knows by many disappointments we lose our confidence. Even as small children, we are often disappointed by parents, teachers and friends. No time for you! I have better things to do! See how you can handle himself! You’ve brought that onto yourself! You were always such a loser! – Who does not know all these hurtful sayings with which the children’s trust will be destroyed? Now Jesus wants to heal our hearts, so that we can trust him. Slowly and patiently and very gently He comes to us. He never disappointed us, even if we have really failed totally. His love is just bigger!
Thank you, Jesus, you take me! You do not look at my inabilities and failures. You’ve only boundless love, patience and mercy for me; – I want to accept that and trust you, and learn to love yourself. Help me, Lord!
Bible Reading Today: 1 Corinthians 15: 20 – 34
Our team is looking for help to translate the devotions from German in English!
frank.lietuva@gmail.com


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