Receive His Tender Love

Last summer felt like a whirlwind.

After months of navigating the wildly hot housing market in our area, the Lord blessed us with an accepted offer on our first house. Next came the countless details and planning that come with preparing to pack and move a family of four. After moving, the days and weeks of settling in were sometimes stressful, but mostly joyful and filled with deep gratitude.

My to-do list, however, seemed to never end: house projects, boxes to unpack, exploring the new community. One thing I failed to put on my list? Daily prayer time. On a good morning, I managed to sit down with my Bible, but even then my mind raced with all that seemingly needed to be done.

Of course, at this point in my life and faith journey, I know and have experienced that when you prioritize time with the Lord, everything about life is better. I don’t have a good reason to share as to why I didn’t change my course and do as my heart of hearts knew I should.

One Sunday morning—thanks be to God—I hit my breaking point. After a meltdown to my husband, I cried to the Lord too, pouring out my heart to Him. Admittedly, a big part of me felt like I shouldn’t even bother Him since I hadn’t bothered to give Him the time of day He deserved. Why should He care?

“With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption. . .” (Psalm 130:7).

Jesus was so close in prayer, as I imagined Him looking into my eyes and smiling His warm, gentle smile. He put His hands on my shoulders and assured me everything, every detail would be okay. Where my heart felt heavy, His was light. I cried even harder at the tender, merciful love He showed me.

The Lord wants us to give Him our whole heart. His mercy is always ours to receive if we only go to Him. When was the last time you really shared your heart with the Lord? Find some time to spend with Him. Receive His love.

Find some time to spend with Him. // Elise HoweClick to tweet

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