Scripture:
“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)
Reading:
I can still feel the gentle rocking, the warm weight of my little girl resting in my lap; the faint scent of baby shampoo. That evening, highlighted only by the hallway light, our speech delayed daughter began to sing with me - a song, a definite message, I had sung to her from her very beginning.
“Jesus Loves Me.” My words had become her own.
In that moment, I felt so much joy!
Lest you think I’m tooting my own horn, I also recall hearing from another child in a heated discussion something much harder. Our teenager told me that when she thinks critical thoughts about herself, it’s my voice she hears.
In that moment, my heart cracked.
There is only one perfect parent. The Bible shows that God lovingly, truthfully speaks with purpose. His words are never careless. He is our good Father who builds us up, corrects us with His love, and calls us to His will.
If it’s true that our parents’ voices significantly influence our inner voice, then it certainly would benefit us to know our perfect Heavenly Father’s voice. And as a child of God and by the power of His Spirit, we can also be His echo, speaking life-giving words to those around us, especially to our children.
Your Heavenly Father speaks over you, His child, with love and devotion. He assures you that His affection is not dependent on your performance (Zephaniah 3:17). His words guide you (Psalm 32:8). And like a present Father, He calls you back when you wander from what is best and lovingly corrects you (Proverbs 3:11–12). Your Heavenly Father’s voice always resonates with hope.
As you spend time in God’s Word, notice His voice in your thoughts: words of identity, love, delight, guidance, wisdom, instruction, encouragement, and hope. Yes, indeed Jesus loves you deeply. Choose to be His echo.
Your Turn:
1. In a world that uses all sorts of labels, knowing God calls you His “chosen” and “beloved,” how does that change the way you see yourself (1 Peter 2:9)?
2. How can you remind yourself that the Lord is rejoicing over you every day (Zph. 3:17)?
Prayer:
Lord God, You are so good! Thank You for speaking life over me. Please renew my mind and transform me to echo Your life-giving words, especially to my loved ones. Amen.