Dearest Daughter,
You asked me today, “now that I’m saved does that mean I can’t sin anymore?”
And I answered you in the best way I knew. The truth.
“That’s not possible, baby.” I said.
I went on to explain, and you seemed to truly understand, but I know I didn’t tell you everything. There’s just so much to say, and much of it you will learn as you go. Like most of us.
Many folks, just like you, think that once they’ve asked Jesus into their heart that they’re supposed to be perfect. There’s a misconception that some miraculous change immediately takes place in your life, but that’s not how God works. The only perfect person who ever lived, and who will ever be was the one who died for your sins. The rest of us take a bit of refining. Or actually, a lot of refining.
The thing is, Jesus doesn’t expect you to be without fault. He just wants you to accept His sacrifice with a grateful heart. He wants your love and your willingness to try and see things from His perspective. The cool part is that each time you work to see with your Jesus glasses on, the more you’ll start to have His vision on a daily basis.
I want you to know that what you have right now is a gift. Salvation is your prize, and now that you’ve claimed it you just need to walk in it. Your salvation means you’re free. You’re no longer a prisoner to sin, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be tempted by sin. It doesn’t mean you won’t fall to sin. It just means that you’re forgiven.
It’s important to remember that God is your Heavenly Father, and much like you listen to me and your dad because you love us, so too do you work to please God. You don’t obey Him because you have to now that you’re saved. You obey Him because you love Him.
The awesome part is that this is the beginning of a really beautiful thing for you. Each morning when I look at you sleeping I pray. I pray for you to grow in grace and beauty, but most importantly to grow in your relationship with Christ. This personal relationship you’ve entered into is an epic journey. On this trek you don’t have to be afraid for you are never alone. The joy of the Lord is your strength, and each day you walk with Jesus is one step closer to the person you were meant to be.
You see, before He even formed you inside my body, He knew you. He knew the sound of your laughter, and even that unique notch on your left ear. He knew your favorite food, and He knew your most special, secret dreams. Before you were even born! He created you, He placed desires within you, and He has wonderful plans for you. Each day is a journey through the specific pages of your story. And along the way you will learn so much and be made even lovelier than you are if you listen closely for His voice to speak to your heart. Remember, you are not alone.
A life with Jesus doesn’t mean you won’t fall, but it does mean He will pick you up. It doesn’t mean you’ll never hurt, but He will comfort you. It doesn’t mean you’ll never face challenges, but He will provide a way for you. He will never leave you or forsake you.
In this world you’ll feel pulled. The pleasures and worries of this world will try to pull you from His presence. Don’t let it; stay close to Him. Never believe for a moment that this world defines you. You are not what others say you are. You are a princess. A child of the One True King. Don’t forget it.
When the world says you can’t, listen to His voice. If He says you can, then you will. The most important thing to remember is this isn’t all up to you. I mean, yes, you need to love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your mind, and all your strength, but perfection isn’t a price you have to pay. You didn’t earn this gift of salvation thus far, and you don’t have to work for it even now. You just have to receive this great grace that He freely gives. The rest? You’ll get the hang of it.
I think you’ll find that when you serve the Lord (a service of love, mind you) that although life isn’t perfect, it is wonderful. It’s full of joy and amazing gifts He presents along the way when we have eyes to see and hearts to receive. His blessings, after all, are new each morning. Taste and see.
Enjoy your walk, my love.
In Him,
Mom
By Brie Gowen
