BEAUTIFUL SCARS

No matter what we do in life, who we meet, what we learn, where we go—all things leave marks on us in their own way.

It’s the same when we mess up or make mistakes. We may be scarred by things we’ve done in the past. But those things, the mean words we’ve said and the selfish things we’ve thought, brought to Jesus for His forgiveness, can be things we learn and grow from, rather than things we’re haunted by. Some people, having realised how painful sin is, now hate it. They hate selfishness and love following Jesus. They love the purity and perfection of God’s ways.

Some, knowing how far they fall short (ROMANS 3:23), have gentle, generous attitudes towards others. They show understanding, compassion and kindness when others mess up. They love helping people (no matter who they are) come close to God for forgiveness and new life. When we are confident that our selfish and hurtful acts are freely and completely forgiven, we will love knowing and spending time with the One who has shown us mercy. We can love much, for we have been forgiven much (LUKE 7:47).

To pray about . . .

Father, I feel like I already carry a lot of scars from the things I have done and the mistakes I have made. Please heal me in Your love and forgiveness, so that I can also be gentle and generous with the scarred people I meet.

WE GIVE TO OTHERS WHAT WE HAVE RECEIVED FROM GOD.

YouTh Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries