Some of us have grown up in a home with loving parents, a mother and father who taught and encouraged us consistently. We were inspired to view life through the lens of

count your blessings,
you were created for a purpose
you can make a difference
you are divinely designed.

Life holds dreams that are still alive.

We are surrounded by friends and family who support and encourage us. They love us unconditionally. They care enough to tell us the truth, even when it’s hard to hear. They walk beside us through each joy and tear. They validate us in our search for significance. They feel our passion. We are secure in who we are. We are honest with ourselves and operate from a foundation of inner joy knowing Whose we are. We have overcome obstacles, barriers and challenges. We accept God’s grace for our past mistakes.

Who has made you feel valued? How did they do it? Why did you receive it from them?

On one of my first mission trips to Germany we met women who were beginning to come out from under a history of Communism. Their self-worth had been challenged under the influence and power of that form of government. We wanted to touch their hearts. How?

As our week together drew to a close, those of us who had traveled from the United States risked reaching out to them in a simple, yet unique way. At the close of our final session we gave each woman a mirror. We asked her to stare at her own face in the mirror.

As some of you can imagine, this was hard for them to do. Me? Beautiful? Lovable? Valuable?

Picture a small, sparsely furnished room, filled with God’s peace, breaking down barriers. Gently flowing tears. Sobs of amazement. Then we began softly singing to these precious ladies. Maybe you know the song, too. “Jesus Loves Me.” There were no instruments. Only accapello music. Soon we heard their gorgeous voices joining ours, confirming (maybe some for the first time) “Yes, Jesus loves me!”

There was not a dry eye in the room. What a precious moment. All of us needed the validation. Yes, Jesus does love you. He created you. Regardless of who on this earth treats you as a treasure, or fails to, know you are valuable to Him.

What is your story? I’d love to have you share it with other women here. Let’s encourage one another in the faith.

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