God Loves You Just As You Are

A few decades ago, I was ticked over something my husband said or did a few days before Valentine’s Day. But as I was out getting groceries, I walked by a huge Valentine card display and thought I’d pick one up for Davie. Although my heart wasn’t really in it, I knew I’d eventually get over being annoyed, and it was silly to make another trip later.

So I started looking at all kinds of overly sugary, flowery cards, which weren’t our style even when everything was good between us. I noticed a man next to me was also looking at one card after another after another.

Finally, I picked up a card that struck me so funny I snorted. The man looked hopeful, “Did you find a good one?”

“Yup, it’s perfect,” I said and read it to him: “Some women find a guy and try to change him. Not me. I love you just the way you are….” Opening the card, I continued, “Just don’t get any worse.”

I guess my neighbor didn’t recognize the subtle humor because he didn’t crack a smile and walked away. Thankfully, Dave did when I gave it to him on Valentine’s Day. He knew how much I respected, admired, and loved him. But once in a while I did say, “I wouldn’t trade you for anyone else, but there are a few things I might like to tweak.”

If a flawed, selfish lady in Nebraska could love her husband unconditionally, why do I struggle to believe a good, good God with an infinite capacity to love and forgive—a God Who IS love—loves me unconditionally?

Do you ever face that uncertainty? If you do, read 1 Chronicles 16:34: Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. (NLT) Notice there is no “unless” before the period.