The Joy and Blessing of Affirmations. . .

You know what I am talking about; the occasional "ada-girl" or "great job" we are fortunate enough to get from peers, supervisors, spouses, or on the rare occasion our children. Our need as well as our desire for affirmation is real. I see how Gracie and Zoe, our lab puppies respond to praise. . . there again, they respond to just about anything that has a treat connected with it. 

Think about it, we sometimes work overtime in our jobs for an extra pat on the back. I have watched our adolescent daughter take hours getting ready to be with friends to hear the words: "you look great." Let's face it, affirmations feel good. We want to feel that our life has value, our contributions are valued, and our work is not done in vane. 

Hear the good news: You are fearlessly, marvelously, and wonderfully made. God takes delight in you! How does that feel? Can you allow yourself time to let that sink in? 

YOU, yes you are wonderfully made! 

God takes delight in you. A delight beyond our human understanding. 

As you go forth into this week, this day, even this very moment in time, allow yourself to be lost in the beauty and grace of God's constant presence in your life. 

Hear God speaking these words to you: 

I love you my beloved child.

You are marvelously made. 

You are beautiful in my sight.

I love YOU.

May we strive to honor God in all we do in and with our lives. . . there we will find the ultimate affirmation!