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“Everybody needs somebody who believes in them more than they themselves do.”

A thought by Mark Batterson, (2015-10-06) from his book, If: Trading Your If Only Regrets for God's What If Possibilities (Kindle Location 2949). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. (Click on the title to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)

Of course God does.  He sent his only son, Jesus to buy us back.  The Psalmist says, “In sin did my mother conceive me.”    But God still believes in us even though we had turned our back on his plan.  So if you believe that no one believes in you, God does.  That is a fact.

I like what Mark says, “One of the most important and most underrated skill sets of a Christ follower is the ability to spot potential. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a GM on draft day, making a political appointment, or coaching Little League. Few things will shape your future more than the ability to see possibilities where others see impossibilities— it’s called faith.”

He goes on, “I have no idea how big a mistake you’ve made or how badly you’ve messed up, but God has not given up on you. How do I know this? You’re still breathing. Putting our faith in God is wonderful, powerful. But God warrants our faith. Isn’t it far more amazing that God puts His faith in fallible people like you and me?

He then says, “God has made some bold predictions about you— they’re called promises. And you can take them to the bank. Why? Because the One who made those promises always delivers. The resurrection is the down payment on every promise. If God made good on that prediction, what are you worried about? God does not overpromise or underdeliver. If we meet the conditions, He always exceeds expectations.”


Now that makes a difference to me.  What about you?

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