Devotion: I Really Messed Up This Time

Encouragement for Those in Need of God’s Grace in the Midst of Leadership

My Beloved Child,

I forgive you. Really, I do. I saw what happened; I always do. I saw the way you let Satan deceive your heart. I saw the way you did what you shouldn’t have and didn’t do what I called you to. I saw it all. And I forgive you.

That’s what I’m in the business of doing. I forgive iniquity and heal diseases and redeem lives from the pit. And it is as I take you from that pit that I crown you with My love and mercy, not because of what YOU have done or not done, but because of what My Son, Jesus did on your behalf (Psalm 103:2-3).

Sometimes people like you, people whom I’ve called to be leaders in my Church, struggle with this truth the most: You are forgiven. Don’t believe Satan’s lies that lead toward guilt and shame. Instead, just come and let me give you even more grace (James 4:6). As you do that, as you are vulnerable and understand grace on a deeper level, I will be able to use you even more effectively to convey that grace to others. I have loved you with an everlasting love and I am faithful (Jeremiah 31:3). Absolutely nothing can change that! Nothing (Romans 8:38-39).

I forgive you and there is now no condemnation for you who are in Christ Jesus. I’ve set you free (Romans 8:1-2). I am with you and am mighty to save. I rejoice over you with gladness; yes, even now. Let me quiet you with My love (Zephaniah 3:17). How many times you have heard it before: I love the world (including YOU) so much that I gave my only Son, that whoever believes in me will not perish but have eternal life. Don’t miss the next part, though, I did not send my Son to condemn, but to save (John 3:16-17). You need rescue just as much as the next guy. Stop trying to act like you have it together and just let Me rescue you!

Abide in My love. When you do that, the fruit will come. Leading is hard, but I chose you for this and appointed you to go and bear fruit (John 15:9-17). I can redeem this situation you’re in. I can use it for My glory and I will. So go. Free. Forgiven. Loved. Forever.

Always,
Your Savior and Rescuer

Published June 11, 2013

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