1 John 3:1, "Consider the kind of EXTRAVAGANT love the Father has lavished on us - He calls us children of God! It's true; we are His beloved children."

Think

It's true that a mother's words are important. It's also true that we naturally receive the definition of who we are from our fathers. And that's important because it's our relationship with our earthly father that can majorly influence our view of God. If we were encouraged and affirmed growing up, it's likely much easier to grasp God's love and character. Conversely, if we grew up in an environment that lacked encouragement and affirmation, knowing God as our loving Heavenly Father may be more challenging. Nonetheless, when we have a relationship with God the Father, we tune into what He says of us. This allows Him to define who we are. As today's verse states, the love that God pours out lavishly on His beloved children is extravagant. In a world full of people searching for identity, it is such a comfort to know who we are and whose we are. If we know Christ personally, we are God's children whom He loves unconditionally, above and beyond what we can ever imagine.

Act

Listen to the song, "Who You Say I Am" by Hillsong Worship and really HEAR the words as it speaks about being "A CHILD OF GOD". Receive that identity today.

Pray

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me so extravagantly. I did nothing to earn your love or to deserve it. Yet, you love me still. Help me to recognize your voice and believe only what you say of me. I love you, God! In Jesus' name, Amen!