Philippians 2:6-7, "Who, being in very nature of God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness." 1 Corinthians 8:3, "But whoever loves God is known by God."

Think

When we think about Jesus, it's often harder to believe that He was ticklish than to believe He beat death and overcame the grave to secure eternal life for us. But if you think about it, it's Jesus' vulnerabilities that help us relate to Him the most. We all have secrets, shameful things we fear that, if exposed, will bring on the disappointment of others - a disappointment that may break us. We long to be unconditionally loved. Yet, in the midst of our anger, isolation, and the feeling of being unloveable we forget how to show compassion towards others and especially towards ourselves. We forget that it's exactly that, that Jesus died for - our restoration and transformation. Instead, our secret becomes our safe place, our friend. And in a twisted sense, it becomes our way of feeling loved. So, why do we choose what is hurtful to feel better? We're all looking for the same thing - to be loved with complete acceptance. To be loved with a different kind of love than the imperfect variety that we experience in our earthly relationships. God wants to be the only One who is able to meet that innate need because He is jealous for our hearts. He wants to hold a piece of our hearts that no one else can touch.

Act

Is it easier for you to show compassion towards others more than it is to show compassion towards yourself? Why do you think this is?

Pray

Dear Lord, I know that I am only as sick as my secrets. Give me the courage and understanding to believe that I am lovable and worthy to be loved with complete acceptance. Help me to show the same compassion towards myself that I show towards others. May I be healed in Jesus' name, Amen.