Hello friends! Before we jump into #fmfparty fun, I’d like to take a moment to invite you to share your story with OneThingAlone readers. Has God done something amazing in your life? Do you have an encouraging word to share? If so, check out the guest post guidelines. We’re waiting to hear your story.
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The captain surveyed the players with a critical eye.
“Ionut,” he said decisively.
The boy grinned widely, proud to be the first pick.
“Ovi,” the other captain said.
As Ovi made his way to stand behind his brother, the other captain swiftly called his next pick.
It was an informal draft on a dusty soccer field, middle schoolers mimicking the World Cup players. Not a big deal, I told myself. But as player after player stepped into one of the two lines, my heart pounded. I was left with the riff-raff, those who didn’t play as well, the ones who didn’t belong.
“Asheritah,” the second captain finally said, and I let out the breath I didn’t realize I was holding. I smiled gratefully and made my way to the team, head bowed, having avoided the embarrassment of being the last one waiting to be picked.
You may have experienced something similar when you were a child. The birthday party invitation that never arrived. The secrets whispered behind cupped hand as eyes dart your way.
Maybe you’re still experiencing it now.
The feeling that you don’t belong.
It stings, dear friend, does it not?
We all long to be included, to know we have a place at the table, to feel free to share our stories.
And those who are in Christ Jesus? We do.
Listen to these incredible life-giving words:
But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.
~ 1 John 4:4
You belong to God.
He picked you. After surveying the whole wide world, He chose YOU to be part of His family. Knowing all your weaknesses and shortcomings, He still wants you desperately.
And not only did He pick you, He filled you with His own Spirit. The Spirit who raised Christ Jesus from the dead is flowing through you, giving life to your movements and enveloping you in the family of God.
So those battles you wrestle with day after day? That feeling that no one cares?Reject them in Jesus’ name.
You’re not alone: you’re on God’s team, and Jesus has already won the victory.
Rest, friend, in His amazing love. He’s got you.
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