If there is one thing people need more than anything else, it is to feel loved and accepted. There is a deep sense of fulfillment and security in knowing that someone cares about you, overlooks your faults and appreciates your uniqueness.
How often we try to earn love throughout our lives! Experiencing the feeling of not being loved because of things we have done or said, or simply because of who we are, can lead us to feel rejected and unlovable. It can drive us to seek love and acceptance throughout our lives. And the fear of losing it can lead us to do all sorts of desperate things.
Sometimes people think that they would be more likeable if they were slimmer, taller, smarter, richer; or more talented, popular, attractive, fun—the list goes on. In efforts to gain acceptance, they often try to become someone that they truly are not. That eventually leaves them frustrated and can lower their self-esteem. Even if they are able to earn the love and acceptance they seek from others, it usually doesn’t last very long. That’s because love and acceptance from people often come with conditions. It may be like: “If you live up to my expectations, meet my needs, make me happy; then, I will want to be with you. I will be kind and affectionate toward you. I will express my concern for you. Otherwise, I might not love you. I might reject you.”
Now imagine being genuinely loved—loved simply for who you are, just the way you are with all your flaws and imperfections. There are no conditions. That is, there is nothing you need do, or can do to earn this love. And there is nothing you can ever do to lose it. You must simply receive and accept it, knowing that it is a free gift. That is the kind of love God has for you.
You don’t have to be someone you’re not. You don’t have to act, dress or look a certain way. You don’t have to prove yourself or accomplish great things. You simply come as you are, with all your inadequacies, weaknesses, fears and shortcomings. He will never reject you when you come to Him. You are of great value and worth to God. He wants you to know His love and as you do, you will be able to love and accept yourself and others with His love.
The power of love is amazing and never-ending. It can motivate, energize, inspire, and strengthen. Love can do in a person what nothing else can do. Love has the power to revive and change lives, restore relationships, and bring healing. All else may fail, but love never fails.
Copyright 2006 Kuehn
