Verse: 1 John 4:13-16
13 This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. 16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.

Thoughts
Have you ever played or watched poker? The most exciting part is when someone goes “all in.” They basically decide that they are literally betting it all on one hand. They push all their chips into the middle, and if they win, they win big – but if they lose, they are out.

When I read this passage I imagined God going “all in” on you.  He isn’t playing it safe, just betting a little, trying not to lose. He isn’t just giving you a little bit of his love and presence, knowing that there’s a good chance you’ll mess up and he’ll “lose out.”

No, when God looks at you he says, “my child is worth it – I’m going all in.” You might not feel worthy today, and that’s ok. But God sees it in you. He has given you his Spirit. He didn’t hold back and hedge his bets and play it safe. He gave you his very Spirit to dwell in you. H poured out love completely in your life. And he wants to live and dwell in and with you!

He isn’t just testing the waters here, putting one foot in, and keeping one foot out. He is going all in on you. He wants to risk it all – literally – on you. Listen to this – that is how much you matter to him.

Today, if you are feeling discouraged or down about yourself, remember this verse. God has given you all of himself. He hasn’t held back at all. Because his love for you is unconditional. You are loved, you are cared for, you are valued, and you matter to God.

Prayer
Thank you for how much you love me God. Fill my heart with your love, and break me free from any doubt I have about your love for me!

Author: Christian Dunn