Beloved

Beloved

Loved; greatly loved; dear to the heart

Synonyms: precious, dearest, adored, cherished, treasured, cared for, highly valued.

Antonyms: hated or despised

If we are honest, one of our deepest desires is to be loved, cherished, treasured and cared for.  We look for fulfillment by turning to friends, food, shopping, approval and comparison. In the end, each of these comes up short. It’s time to cease striving and bask in the truth: you are beloved.

Cease striving and bask in the truth: you are beloved.

Loved beyond your wildest imagination.  Cherished. Treasured. Not because of what you do. You can’t earn it, nor are you disqualified by past failures or mistakes.  God has washed us clean.  Let the words of God’s deep, abiding love flow over you:

 

“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.” Col. 3:12-13 

“For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you.” 1 Thess. 1:4*

But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth.” 2 Thess. 2:13

“To those who are the called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ: May mercy and peace and love be multiplied to you.” Jude 1:1

 

 

*All these verses use the same Greek word: agapao which translates beloved.