by leaps and bounds

Have you ever felt like you were drowning?

That anxiety has taken over your body so much that you can not even focus on what is right in front of you? Have you ever thought, is this life going to ever cut me a break? When will I be able to breathe freely? If you answered yes to any of the above, you are not alone. 

Life can be hard. It takes every ounce of energy sometimes to just get out of bed. The twists and turns of the unknown can weigh you down. I want to remind you that there is someone who knows how you feel, how you worry, and how to love you through it all.

Who can do this? His name is Jesus. He has proven His love for the world when He chose the cross. He chose death for the hope of having you, “For God so loved the world that He gave” (John 3:16). Let me tell you, Jesus said yes to Father God for you. He didn’t even have to think twice about it.

All your mess, all your mistakes, all your junk, all your sin, Jesus knew it all. He took the weight of the sin so you no longer have to be bound by it. John 3:17 reads, “For God did not send His son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” He signed His son over for our ransom with no guarantee that we would ever accept His sacrifice. If that isn’t love, then tell me what is? Love is more than just a nice word to hear. It is action! 

Love is patient

love is kind. 

It does not envy, 

it does not boast, and it is not proud.  

Love does not dishonor others.

It is not self-seeking, 

it is not easily angered, 

it keeps no record of wrongs. 

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 

Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a)

So the next time you feel alone, remember you are loved. The next time you doubt you are worthy, remember you are loved. When you think no one cares, remember you are loved. When someone else fails you, remember you are loved. When life hands you some tough times, remember you are loved. You are loved by the one who is love, and He will love you in the good, in the bad, and in all the ugly. That is what He does. He perseveres to show you He loves you. And Love truly does win, not sometimes, but every time.

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Tina Bassett resides in New Martinsville. She is a single mom of three beautiful daughters: Rachel, Charity, and Destiny. She is the director of the greeters/ushers, serves on the prayer team, and also participates on the praise and worship team at her local church. She loves animals and the beach. More than anything she wants her life to reflect God’s love and have an impact on those around her.