“… he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him;”             Psalms 103:10-11

As a young girl – a preteen – I remember picking a flower seeking insight and direction regarding a burning question: “Does he really like me?” I plucked each petal in search of the answer – 

            (first petal) He loves me.         (second petal) He loves me not.

While alternating these phrases, one petal at a time floated gently to the ground until only one remained …      He loves me – not.

Not exactly the answer I was looking for so I did what any other stubborn child would do – I picked another flower (and another, and another). Even when I got my wish and believed, He loves me, it wasn’t true or at least not for long anyway. 

With time and maturity, I came to realize that no amount of petal-plucking could ensure someone would love me.

Don’t we act the same way toward God? We think he picks and chooses who to love.

He loves me.  He loves me not.

            I share my gifts and talents with others – He loves me.

            I have a moment where I don’t use my church words – He loves me not.

            I’ve done all that I should; pray, read my Bible, attend church regularly – He loves me.

Things from the past come to mind making me feel shameful, embarrassed – 

He loves me not.

You keep this pattern going and end with one last proverbial petal and you conclude:

                        He loves me not. How could He?

If you find yourself with one last petal and it is labeled, He loves me not, I am here to remind, tell, and emphasize, you couldn’t be more wrong.

Read Psalms 103:10-11 again.

Thankfully, God does not treat us we deserve. His love is unconditional, transcending all reason. His love for you is as high as the heavens. Vast, immense, beyond measure.

So next time you’re tempted to pick yourself (your words, thoughts, actions) apart like that flower, remember and recite He loves me.

How can I be sure?

Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.  On that you can depend!