Jan 22, 2022
“My dear children, let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love. This is the only way we’ll know we’re living truly, living in God’s reality. It’s also the way to shut down debilitating self-criticism, even when there is something to it. For God is greater than our worried hearts and knows more about us than we do ourselves. And friends, once that’s taken care of and we’re no longer accusing or condemning ourselves, we’re bold and free before God (and others)!”
1 John 3:18-21
John 10:10 says this: (Amplified version)
10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows].
What does it mean to have life more abundantly?
The term "abundant life" comes from the Bible verse John 10:10,
"I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."
"More abundantly" means to have a superabundance of a thing. "Abundant life" refers to life in its abounding fullness of joy and strength for spirit, soul and body.
Where in the Bible does it say live life to the fullest?
In the first 10 verses of John 10, Jesus addresses this important topic. He is discussing his role as the Good Shepherd and in verse 10 states his purpose on earth: “I came so that they could have life — indeed, so that they could have life to the fullest.”
When I am talking about being vulnerable, what I’m not saying is you need to be vulnerable with the whole world or everyone!
Being able to be vulnerable needs the element of trust.
Definition of trust:
“…..firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone.”
What does it mean to be fully known and fully loved?
Author Timothy Keller: “To be loved but not known is comforting but superficial. To be known and not loved is our greatest fear. But to be fully known and truly loved is, well, a lot like being loved by God. It is what we need more than anything.”
What does it mean for God to know us?
Essentially, we are describing the fact that God knows everything! He has never discovered anything new because He has always known everything. ... Our God is omniscient. You won't find the word omniscience in the Bible, but what you do find is that God tells us in various ways that He knows EVERYTHING about us. He knows everything about you!”
Is that scary to you? Comforting? Peaceful? Anxiety creating?
From 0-10, how vulnerable do you think you are with your (what you consider) your closest inner circle, spouse if you have one, kids if this applies?
Do they truly know you?
Can u be vulnerable with Jesus and trust Him with your emotions?
This is where it starts……..trusting God, then trusting others.
How does this verse resonate with you?
“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart
And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.
In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him,
And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].”
Proverbs 3:5-6
How do you know if you are emotionally mature?
What are the key characteristics?
Are you willing to be known? Why or why not?