"God does not love who I wish to be; God loves me." Say that out loud. Let it linger for a moment. How often do we allow ourselves to rest in this truth? If you’re like me, probably not enough. Most of us spend so much time striving to become someone we think God will love—a “better” version of ourselves—while forgetting that God’s love has never been conditional.
We live in a world that thrives on performance. Social media invites us to present our highlight reels. Our workplaces reward results. Even in ministry, we sometimes believe we need to achieve certain milestones to be worthy. It’s easy to project this mentality onto God, assuming Love hinges on who we might become, not who we are.
But Scripture tells a different story. Think of Peter—impulsive, often missing the point, and prone to failure. Yet Jesus loved Peter, not for who Peter could be, but for who he was. That love is what transformed him. It’s the same for us. God doesn’t wait for us to get our act together to love us. He starts with love and works from there.
Breath prayers are simple phrases repeated in rhythm with your breathing. They help focus our thoughts and open our hearts to God’s presence. Here’s how to use this one:
1. Find a Quiet Space: Sit comfortably and take a few deep breaths.
2. Inhale: “God does not love who I wish to be...”
3. Exhale: “...God loves me.”
4. Repeat: Let the rhythm of your breath carry the prayer. Allow the words to move from your head to your heart.
Use this prayer when self-doubt creeps in, when you’re tempted to compare yourself to others, or when you feel the weight of striving. It’s not magic; it’s a way to realign yourself with the truth of God’s unconditional love.
When we stop striving to earn love, we discover a deeper freedom. We can be honest with God and others, unafraid of judgment or rejection. This authenticity strengthens our discipling relationships. When we model vulnerability, it gives others permission to do the same.
In my own life, this prayer has become a lifeline. In moments when I feel inadequate—as a parent, a leader, or even a disciple—I return to these words. They remind me that God’s love isn’t based on my performance. It’s rooted in God’s character, not my competence.
As you practice this breath prayer, consider sharing it with others. In a discipling relationship, use it as a prompt for reflection:
- “What version of you do you find yourself comparative with? What truth do you need to hear instead?”
Encourage your group to practice this prayer together, creating space to discuss how it changes their perspective. When we remind one another of God’s love, we reinforce the foundation on which our faith is built.
“God does not love who I wish to be; God loves me.” The beauty of this truth is that it doesn’t leave us where we are. God’s love is active, shaping us into who we are created to be—not out of obligation, but out of delight. Rest in that today.
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