Pearls from the Bible 48

"What could be more rewarding than hearing from God, calling us His beloved sons and daughters? When Jesus got baptized, he received the words found in Luke 3:22, which say, 'You are my dear son. I am pleased with you.' Once, in a meeting, a pastor was preaching about forgiveness. He is now pastoring the biggest church in India, which was featured in a news report by CBN. In his early stages, a man constantly spread ill news about him, doing everything to damage his reputation. However, God told this man of God to send gifts and forgive him. The man of God found it very difficult to forgive. He knew nothing would change if he forgave. He asked God, 'God, why should I forgive him?' God answered, 'If you forgive him, you will be my beloved son.' The man of God said nothing but simply obeyed God. Yes, forgiveness is hard; at times, we find it meaningless. We have all sorts of reasons for not doing it. But if you love God and want to be His favorite, don't question it—just do it, as He deserves all your love.

Dear God, thank you for your love. Fill us with a love like yours. May we be your favorite sons and daughters. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."