When we are secure in God’s love and provision, we live freely. Our identity is not tied to our accomplishments, possessions, or what others think. We aren’t easily angered, because we’ve let go of trying to control people and situations. We are not paralyzed by the voices of the past or the future. Instead we focus on managing our present responses, believing that the providential will of God is revealed in the relationships and circumstances of our everyday life. We ask God to guide our thoughts and feelings, believing that the goodness of God can prevail in the most difficult situations. This confidence fuels a peaceful and stable spirit that is grateful in all things. When we know we are perfectly loved by God and nothing can be added to or taken away from our identity, we can interact with others without conflict or fear. When we are accused, blamed, and mistreated, we can focus on the other person and not on ourselves. Because we can sense the personal pain and anxiety behind the attack, we are able to respond with compassionate curiosity instead of defensive or offensive words. We are free to love, forgive, and serve the best interests of others. And because we feel free, we are able to bear the fatigue of sacrifice with joy.
– Kevin Scherer, Truly Human
