11/19 Thought

I don't know if it's just in your twenties {probably not}, but this decade really has been a time of growth for me, of discovering just who I am, particularly who I am in Jesus. It's identity ignition, the first sprint from the start line. I can't believe it has taken me this long to realize this, but for whatever reasons it has: that there is joy and authenticity and freedom in just. being. yourself.

It's like learning how to breathe all over again, pure liberation.

And it's important to remember that we are all in progress, that it never boils down to just "one" experience or interaction we've shared. That the "one" doesn't define a person. To receive His grace... such sweet undeserved mercy, God! And to extend it to each other... over and over again, until this beautiful thing is finished.

I'm sorry for the hurts I may have caused you in my 'in progress'. Know that I would never intentionally hurt you. Never. Please pass some grace my way too, and walk with me into the light.

11/1 Thought

Labels {and label-givers} assume a position they have not been given. God, forgive us when we do this.

The only label-giver (and name attached to you that gives you Worth) - is Jesus.

{Chosen. Redeemed. Forgiven. Set Free.}

Don't believe them or the enemy's lies. Keep your head up. Remember HIS words, not theirs.

{Alive. Set Apart. Dearly Loved. Holy. Marked w/ Purpose.}

I am not my sin. I am not the sum total of my trials or temptations, my mistakes or my failures. I am not 'that one' exchange you had with me. You are not better than me; friend, sin levels the playing field. You don't get to categorize, belittle, or define me ill-defined; I am already defined. I am whole, I am love. I am redeemed, I am loved. I am 'in-progress', I am His child. I am a mistake-maker, but He is the mistake-taker. Drowning in Grace, I am free. I am who I AM says I am. From Him/For Him/By Him, I am unstoppable.

Let it go, judge. We are not guilty; we have been set free.

{Jesus/Titanium}