If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1: 9 NASB

Spring summons us to work, rest, and play; but it also beckons humility. I’d searched for glimpses of green growth stretching forth from the mulch, but I’d missed them. I had to kneel. My grandsons joined me on the ground, and we marveled at the miniature daffodils that had burst through. Spring offers us an opportunity to bow, to dig in the dirt, weed, and plant— clear cluttered thoughts and re-frame false beliefs with Truth. We must be rid of false gods and idols.

Spring beckons us to bow, to confess and repent from sinful patterns of relating to God and others. Sin separates us from God and causes division amongst believers. However, confession and repentance restore our relationship with God and others. Repentance means to turn from our iniquity and return to God. We admit our wrongdoing and choose holiness; and He forgives. Besides, He heals what we bring into the light.

God also offers us a new way to relate to ourselves. When we perceive ourselves as beloved children of God, we’re equipped to choose life over self-injury, love and self-care over hate. Likewise, our negative self-talk is silenced. We learn to respect our hurt and limitations; and we cling to Truth. We accept compliments and praise, rather than flick them away like a pesky crumb.  And we take notice of others and offer the same.

Spring beckons Humility. Unity is possible. Deliverance and redemption. Freedom and peace. Believe! In repentance and rest we will be saved. Strength comes to the soul who trusts the Lord. He makes a way in the quiet; therefore, dig deep, confess sin and re-frame false beliefs. Recognize the lies and declare Truth:

Lie – I am unloved- Truth – I am loved! God is love. 1 John 4:8; Though the mountains be shaken and hills be removed, my unfailing love for you will not be shaken . . . Isaiah 54: 10
Lie– I’m alone- Truth– I have a Helper, Keeper, Protector who never tires/sleeps. Psalm 121
Lie-I’m invisible, ugly- Truth- I’m seen and known; fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139
Lie-I’m forgotten, abandoned- Truth– Never will I leave you or forsake you. Hebrews 13:5
Lie– I’m worthless, defenseless- Truth– A Mighty Warrior sings over me! Zephaniah 3:17
Lie– I’m ruined/marred- Truth– I’m chosen! A child of the King. Royalty. I Peter 2: 9

Lord, the enemy of our soul daily feeds us with lies.
May your Truth help us to stand unashamed.

In Him alone,

Lily Mae

For thus the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, has said, “In repentance and rest you will be saved, in quietness and trust is your strength. Isaiah 30:15 NASB