We are desired and delighted in by our Father, and we can neither add to nor diminish his love for us.
“See—behold, ponder, drink in what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” 1Jn 3:1
Heavenly Father, I love obeying this command of yours. Because I want to see everything you will show me about the great love that comes with being your adopted children. So by the Holy Spirit, open my heart’s eyes to behold its height, depth, width, and breadth of your affection for me in Jesus. And, Oh, how I love the word “lavish,” when attached to your love. You haven’t dribbled, trickled, or sprinkled your love on us; you have lavished it—poured it on us without measure or by our merit. To be your child is like standing under the life-giving Niagara Falls of your mercy, grace, and favor. Thank you, now and forever.
“The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save. He will (does) greatly delight in you; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. Zephaniah 3:17
Magnificent and merciful Lord, this portion of your Word contradicts tons of wrong notions I’ve had about you. It also invites my heart to go to places your Spirit alone can take me. Oh… my… goodness! Such doxological wonder and heart overload—because the gospel is true, you greatly delight in us (and me). You aren’t irritated or disappointed with me. You are committed to quiet me with your love; not shame me with rebukes. You “exult” (what a powerful word) over me—not just with singing, but with loud singing. Abba, enable me to hear you serenading me in the Gospel—today and every day. I, praise, bless, and worship you for so great a salvation, and so great a Savior as Jesus.
SO VERY AMEN