Welcome! You have decided to look deeper into the fact that you are loved by God. This is not something “too good to be true,” but a truth that God conveyed through the life and death of his Son, Jesus. May the following information begin a wonderful journey in understanding just how valued you are and who you were created to be.

Contrary to the world’s opinion:

YOU’RE NOT WHAT YOU DO

Often in social gatherings, the first question people ask is, “What do you do?”  The world tells us we are what we do. We are measured by what we have accomplished, what we have achieved, such as a good education, an impressive reputation or resume, successes, trophies, and awards. These are all great attributes considering that God created us with purpose, unique gifts, and abilities, but those titles and achievements don’t define us.

Our trophies rust, awards fade, and any education or success we claim can become outdated by the next generation’s knowledge and achievements. The glory of what we do can become lost.

YOU’RE NOT WHAT YOU HAVE

We have the latest devices, the newest invention, and quickly they are replaced by the “next best thing.” You may have meaningful relationships that can become wounded and are no longer. We can even boast of good health, which can change quickly.

As hard as we struggle to survive, hold on or try to control – possessions, relationships, and health can slip through our hands for many reasons.

YOU’RE NOT WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT YOU

Words are containers of power. We are encouraged and built up when others say good things about us. However, when negative words are said to us, behind our backs or on social media, we become wounded, for they cut us deeply. Negative words play over and over in our minds, and we wonder if we will ever be able to overcome the pain they have inflicted.

If you are not what you do, what you have, or what people say about you…who are you?

YOU ARE THE BELOVED CHILD OF GOD

God, your Heavenly Father, loves you with everlasting love. He proved that love by sending his Son to pay the price for your sin. Nothing you can do would make him turn away from loving you. The Bible says this about how loved by God you are:

But now, God’s Message, the God who made you in the first place…, the One who got you started…,

“Don’t be afraid, I’ve redeemed you. I’ve called your name. You’re mine. When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you. When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down.

When you’re between a rock and a hard place, it won’t be a dead end—Because I am God, your personal God, the Holy of Israel, your Savior. I paid a huge price for you…That’s how much you mean to me! That’s how much I love you! I’d sell off the whole world to get you back, trade the creation just for you. Isaiah 43:1-4 (The Message)

HOW DO YOU START A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD?

• Seek him and pray

Just as you would have a sincere conversation with a friend, so God wants to talk with you. Confess your need for a relationship with him and help find forgiveness for sin. Ask him for help in keeping your mind focused on him and his will for your life.

• Read and Study the Bible

Think of the Bible as a handbook. There is more about how to live your life within the pages than you may realize. Consider starting with Jesus’ teachings throughout the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, and then follow the disciples’ teachings in the rest of the New Testament.

• Join a Group of Like-Minded Believers

We are wired to be in community not only for a sense of belonging and acceptance but also for spiritual growth as a Christian. If you are not sure where to start, see the link below that will be a guide to The Salvation Army nearest you.

The United States– Click Here

Canada–Click Here

Please explore SAConnects by clicking on any of the tabs at the top and see the various ministries, opportunities, and community connections offered through The Salvation Army. Are you looking for prayer, leave a prayer request on the Spiritual Life Development page.

God is pleased with the fact that you are searching. May God bless you as you build a relationship with him.