Truly Known.

Today has been great. I think that birthdays (at least in our Western Culture) are days to be reminded of the many blessings the Lord has given us--so many friends and family that take time to say Happy Birthday...and also just to be reminded that we are loved, because it's often the devil's toehold to tell us that we aren't loved, and sometimes, ashamedly enough, I believe it.

DO NOT LOSE HEART...

this is in one of my favorite verses- John 16:33.
but I came across it again today in Hebrews 12:3
Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

A call to persevere. Why? Because He did. For Him. We get our encouragement from that...like electrolytes fromt the Gatorade during a scorching, hot, blazing and seemingly torturous marching band rehearsal.

Interesting, too, the heart of us is who we are. We invite Jesus into our "hearts," i.e. the entirity of our being. We love with all of our "hearts," with every entity of ourselves...don't lose yourself...hmmm.

You know what else is encouraging? We are TRULY KNOWN by God. In everything, and yet He is everything for us if we claim that, ha, and even when we don't.

We are intricately made, and He is the only one who can see all of us.

Needless to say, my day has been *made* -like a bed- several times today. God has indeed blessed me with so many amazing people that care so much, and I recognize that blessing today!




Xtreme GRACE and PEACE.
love,
amanda lauren