"But for you who welcome him [the Spirit of Christ], in whom he dwells -- even though you still experience all the limitations of sin -- you yourself experience life on God's terms. It stands to reason, doesn't it, that if the alive-and-present God who raised Jesus from the dead moves into your life, he'll do the same thing in you that he did in Jesus, bringing you alive to himself? When God lives and breathes in you (and he does, as surely as he did in Jesus), you are delivered from that dead life. With his Spirit living in you, your body will be as alive as Christ's! -- Romans 8:10-11 msg"
When I read something like this, I can scarcely contain myself! I know where I've been, I know what I've come through, I know the decisions and choices I've made. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't berate myself or beat myself up declaring, "I'm unworthy! I'm unworthy!" I AM unworthy, but I recognize my unworthiness filled with awe! So great a love that He has for me is beyond comprehension! All I can do is respond with gratitude and the attitude of servitude. Not serving under an oppressor! Far from it, actually! Serving under a liberator! Serving under a Savior who is passionate and compassionate for me, for you...
It should have been enough that He did not spare His Own Son but gave Him as a sacrifice for us, to save us from our sins and draw us unto Him. If He stopped there and said, "This proves My love for you." that would, should be sufficient! But He doesn't stop there! He continues to pursue us! He continues to labor for our hearts, for it's our love He desires! Yes, He does want our worship and praise and gratitude! He wants all of this and more, given in love! Given willingly, joyfully, in love! And how can I not love Him Who knows me as He does - yet loves me anyway, so much so as to pursue my heart! Mine! Demonstrating such an amazing love for me that I am astonished! He takes my breath away! My eyes fill with love-tears!
Very well said!
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