Based on my notes from a section in Jeanie Shaw’s book, “The Inside of the Cup“.
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” 1 John 3.1
What difference does it make to my life when I believe I am loved by my heavenly father?
And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” (Matthew 3:17; 17:5)
The voice from heaven might have been aimed primarily at those around Jesus, but please don’t say it carried no weight for Jesus, too. If it benefitted him to know he was loved, how much more me.
So the question that arises is: Who are we to God?
Dearly loved children
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children” Ephesians 5.1
Chosen and beloved
“As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” Colossians 3.12
What do you notice in these representative passages? I see two key elements.
Firstly, that we are chosen and dearly loved children. God has done this. It is not that we have earned it or deserve it. Our part is to discover his love for us and embrace it.
Secondly, I observe that there are wonderful imperatives in these Scriptures — to follow the example of God and to clothe ourselves with Christlike qualities.
What my life looks like when I live from a place of belovedness
- I look forward to time with my Heavenly Father. Psalm 27.8.
- I assume He has good things for me in His Word. Psalm 119.36.
- I live with hope. Romans 15.13.
- I give my love away because I always receive more from Him than I give. 1 John 4.19.
- I react to criticism with equanimity, seeking the truth in it without taking it as evidence of my unworthiness. Proverbs 9.8-9.
- I treat everyone with respect. 1 Peter 2.17.
- I desire to treat others in such a way that they may feel beloved. John 13.34-35.
Taken together, the outcomes of a love-inspired life sound a lot like living like Jesus.
How do I develop a Christlike life? It all starts with becoming convinced of something. And that something is that I am dearly loved by my heavenly father. If you are unsure if you are loved, if you are uncertain of your acceptance, that is the place to start if you want to be a disciple of Jesus. Don’t begin with behaviour, but become convinced you are beloved.
Reflection questions
You might find it helpful to mull over these questions:
- When I think about God looking at me, what expression do I imagine on His face?
- Which of the seven outcomes above feels most present in my life right now? Which feels most distant?
- How do I usually respond to criticism or failure, and what might change if I truly believed I was secure in God’s love?
- What would it look like this week to live from belovedness?
Conclusion
Belovedness is not a sentimental idea. It is the fertile soil of a Christlike life. When I forget that I am loved, my attempts at a faithful life grow the weeds of effort, anxiety, or comparison. When I remember, obedience becomes a joy.
The invitation of Scripture is not first to do more, but to receive more. To listen again to the voice that says, “You are my beloved child.” From that place, a different kind of life begins to take shape.
What’s your take on this topic? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please drop me a comment.
Your brother, Malcolm
