I went to bed, pulled the covers over my head, and had a big ole pity party. Once again, I had been rejected…come in second place…told I wasn’t quite what “they” were looking for. The scarlet letter loomed large. It wasn’t an A like Hester Prynne’s in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s book I had read in high school, but a big fat R that I chose to wear when life turned ugly.
There was a woman in the Bible who understood rejection too. You probably know her as “the woman with the issue of blood.” She was defined by what was wrong with her rather than what was right. Perhaps you’ve felt that way a time or two in your life—defined by what’s wrong with you, at least in your own mind.
Mark 5:25-32 tells her story and lets us know that she had been suffering for 12 years. During that time, she had been rejected by her family and friends, and drained financially and physically.
What woman among us hasn’t felt the wretchedness of rejection and the humility of hopelessness? What woman among us hasn’t felt she was less than because of certain circumstances in her life? What woman hasn’t wondered; Would God even care about the likes of me? She felt all that and more.
In Biblical days, certain situations and conditions rendered a person ceremonially unclean. A woman was considered unclean during her monthly cycle. That means she was untouchable. Let that sink in for a moment.
Sometimes we can feel the same. Abandoned by friends. Deserted by a spouse. Forgotten by family. Unseen by society. But she was not forgotten. She was not alone. This daughter of Abraham was close to God’s heart and foremost on His mind. So, God the Father orchestrated His Son’s journey to pass her way.
The woman broke all the rules when she heard Jesus was coming. She pressed through the crowd and reached for the hem of His garment. Immediately, she was healed. She felt it. The power left Jesus. He knew it.
“But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at His feet and, trembling with fear, told Him the whole truth. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering” (Mark 5:32-34 NIV).
Sometimes one single word in Scripture speaks volumes. Daughter. That was a term of endearment she would not easily forget. No matter what you’ve been through, or what you will go through in the future, hang on to this truth: You are God’s daughter whom He loves.
Mark 5:25-32 reminds us just how much God values and esteems His female image bearers. He singled out one lone woman from a crowd of curiosity seekers, healed her physically and spiritually, and then placed her center stage to tell about it during a time in history when women weren’t even allowed to testify in court or speak to men in public.
When we feel rejected by the world, we can remember that we have been selected by God. You have been chosen…handpicked…never less than.
Lord, I know that rejection is just part of life. When I feel second best, help me remember that I am the apple of Your eye, and that’s all that really matters. My significance is found in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Look back up at today’s graphic at the top of the page. Which one of the affirmations in the list mean the most to you? Leave a comment and let’s share. I’ll randomly pick one comment and send a FREE copy of Never Less Than!
Digging Deeper
Doesn’t it just warm you heart to see how Jesus honored women in a culture that considered them property. In a time when women weren’t allowed to speak to men in public, sit with men in the synagogue, testify in court, or sit under a rabbi’s teaching, Jesus crossed right over those cultural boundaries to honor and esteem women as co-image bearers of God. Want to learn more about how Jesus, the God-made-man broke the man-made rules to set women free…to set you free? Then this book is for you! Never Less Than: Living Empowered, Esteemed, and Equipped When the World Tells You Otherwise.
This would be GREAT for your next women’s Bible study!!!
Comments 217
I really needed this – thank you!
Exactly what am going through at my place of work. Overworked yet no appreciation
The whole paragraph resonated with me.
Having recently been rejected by my husband of fifteen years, “Selected not rejected” brings tears to my eyes.
I pray God give you grace, strength and peace and guide your next steps in life and make you whole through Jesus Christ. You ARE the daughter of the King! Your husband cannot redifine that truth. You are accepted and loved!
Selected not rejected
Delivered not destroyed
In remission end of May from large b cell lymphoma- going more strength each day and looking forward to when I can get port removed. So grateful God has carried me through this.
I have been forgiven not forsaken!
This was my choice also. I am thankful that I am forgiven for my sins and am not forsaken!
Selected not Rejected
My head is always telling me I’m less than…
I just can’t pick 1.
Selected, embraced, protected, forgiven, delivered, esteemed, empowered, fully alive and cleansed! All of these are a part of the beautiful story Christ has brought to my life and so many others. God truly is good!
Empowered not Overpowered
Though the calamitous concerns of this life can feel encumbering and overwhelming, I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me and I’m more than a conqueror through Jesus Christ Who loves me.
😃🙏🏾✝️
Esteemed, not demeaned.
Just Thank You so very much!
Thank you Sharon!
I love them all, but to choose one:
“Fully Alive, not Fatally Flawed”
I was sick for a good 6 wks recently,
I had no energy, muscle weakness, depression, mood changes. Didn’t want to leave the house. I was in God’s word everyday. The scripture I clung to was Psalm 118:17 “I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD!”
My Dr ran blood tests, and end result was that a possible virus had come on me. I am well now and able to do the things that I love to do! Serving the Lord, as top priority.
God Bless all my sister’s in Christ🙏❤️
Author
Praise God for healing!
“Cleansed within, not trapped in sin.”
I struggle with feeling forgiven when I continue to struggle with forgiveness to a group of people.
“Protected, not neglected.” I am a fairly recent widow and I am learning that I am never alone, even in my loneliest days and that I can trust God to always take care of me.
You are not alone sweet sister❤️
‘“Embraced not erased”
Am in my silver-hair, golden age years and have struggled with feeling ignored, abandoned and worthless. This scripture of the woman being cleansed by touching the hem of Our Lord’s garment has long been a treasured favorite of mine. I want to stay hidden because that has been “my place” but needing desperately the healing of negatives of being pushed to the side – get out of the way. And being embraced by the Lord is beyond (but trying to believe) priceless to me.
Thank you for your encouragement through this devotional.
Author
I’m so glad it encouraged you!
Embraced not erased
Delivered not Destroyed ~ as I struggle everyday with feelings of rejection, self worth, and inability to be the person I want to be. Yet I smile, and I’ve hidden it from everyone.
Forgiven not neglected, not condemned, not judged.
I identify most with embraced not erased. I’m a retired teacher and also a retired Children’s Pastor at my church. Since I don’t work with kids anymore, I question if I truly made an impact on their lives. Was all those years I put in wasted?
Author
Absolutely not! You will see many MSN’s of those children in heaven snd they will tell you the impact yiu made on their lives!
Fully alive not fatally flawed.
He died for my flaws making me fully alive. Thank you Jesus
Embraced not erased. God sees and hears us all. His divine intervention healed a woman who had been unseen for years. God saw her in a crowd and changed her life.
Esteemed not Demeaned
For my entire 28 years of marriage, when I don’t agree with my spouse or his family, I am demeaned. I am told that I have a problem, I am the one who needs to get it together. Even when I have sought Christian counsel and bring it back to the table for discussion my spouse and in-laws they only see fault in me. They call themselves Christians, but feel that they are blameless in all aspects of life. The weight of that is incredibly heavy. I frequently believe that maybe I am worthless. Because of children and grandchildren I try to just keep the peace. How can I be esteemed by God when so many tell me otherwise? I don’t even know what I did all these years to offend them. All I have done is try to be myself. Share a different viewpoint. I’m far from perfect and do make lots of mistakes. I’m human. I get this woman of the bible who was deemed ceremonialy unclean. The pain of being an outsider is brutal sometimes. I pray to be lifted from this mess, to be shown a direction to turn, but don’t see an open door. I will keep praying. Perhaps I have allowed myself to live oppressed so long that I believe this is my only option.
Thank you for this devotion today. It definitely stirs my mind to remember who I am, a daughter of God.
Author
I’m so sorry you are being treated that way. Do you have some good friends in your church?
Fully alive not fatally flawed.
“Protected not neglected” – wow this speaks volumes to me. Thanks so much for sharing this!
Thank you so much for this. My daughter really needs this. I passed it on and pray that she reads through it and takes courage.
Empowered, not overpowered
Thank you for this.
Thank you for today’s message. It was just what I needed to hear!
Protected not neglected
I’m choosing to be empowered, not overpowered—trusting God to give me the strength and grace I need to help my mom through a difficult situation. It seems overwhelming, but with His grace and guidance we will overcome this.
Love…Selected not Rejected….people can reject you but Jesus never will!
Esteemed not Demeaned – this is the one most fitting for how I want to love toward feeling
Identity in Christ, Living fully
Never less than
Good morning Sharon. I am facilitating a small group studying your book. Take Hold of the Faith you Long For. I want to say thank you for following your gift!! Being obedient. Something I lack very much!! And I’m praying for you!! Seriously I am!! I know the evil one is always lurking.
We are searching for a new study. Maybe this new book will be it!! Do Tammy.
Author
Thank you for your prayers. Really. I mean it. The battle is real.
Forgiven not forsaken.
Author
Yes!
That is the one that jumped out at me also..
Thank you for this message this morning. I certainly needed to hear it.
A couple of these resonate with me, but the one that truly struck me is “Delivered not Destroyed”. I went through several years of verbal and mental abuse from my late husband. Though I suffered emotionally, I was not destroyed! I went through many months of counseling and spent hours in prayer healing my emotional wounds and I was delivered!
I am not perfect, I still have some PTSD issues from time to time, but I know that God has allowed me to be healed from the trauma I suffered. So as I write this I am declaring that I am DELIVERED, NOT DESTROYED!
Author
Praise God!
I so needed to hear these words today and for all of us women … He hears us and sees us and will make it all okay.
Embraced not Erased
46 years ago I married a man who h ad three children, he had custody so I became instant mom, what a blessing for me. 26 years ago he decided I was no longer enough. My children did not turn away from me. Thanks be to God.
Protected not Neglected
I love the last line- cleansed within not trapped in sin
Forgiven not forsaken
Selected not rejected.
I think all of the list applies to me over the past year. There is not just one I can choose. I have lost all of my family so it is just me now. I have felt like noone cares – have dropped out of my small group and not a word – no even notices – do not feel included. So much more. I am printing off this graphic and reading it to myself every morning. This sadness I am going through has got to go and so do the pity parties – I feel like I could have one every morning – just pull the covers over my head. But I get up and keep going the best I can with God’s help. The funny thing is – this has never been me. I have always been outgoing, seeing needs in others, laughing – where now there are tears inside and outside. I have isolated somewhat …..just one thing after another this past year. I am tired. I realize it is because I am putting emotions and thinking on myself and others – feeling left out like no one cares – or feeling mistreated or cheated on when the truth is I need to focus all of that on God. He will not do those things – but yet I feel He is also not near which makes me even sadder. I pray but feel He is distant. I know this to not be true but yet that is how it continues to feel. I just cry out His name and that is all I can do at this point, I would gladly appreciate prayers – sorry to dump all this out.
Author
Know that you are being prayed for.
You are loved Kathy, prayers are being sent to our loving Father for you.
You are loved Kathy, I am praying for you!
Father, forgive me for I have sinned & fallen short. I ask that you breathe life into my bones, as in Ezekiel 37:5, so that I may continue to live on the narrow path to my final destination: heaven. Lord, I ask that you bless those who read this beautiful devotion with the motivation they need to keep going and continue to bless Mrs. Jaynes with words and endurance to keep writing. Father, thank You for working through her so that I may hear You speak to me. In the blessed name of Jesus, I offer up this prayer, Amen.
This means the most to me: esteemed not demeaned.
Selected
GOD chose you and me. He purposely pursues us each day because HE does love us that much. He wants to hold us close and take care of us each day for all of our deepest needs. That applies to you and me
AMEN
Protected not neglected. This means a great deal to me when my siblings don’t get along and don’t even acknowledge me. None of them are believers and that means I can only talk with those outsides of my family about Jesus. Thank you for this devotion, Sharon.
I think aboutwith the first one feeling rejected. BUT GOD. When you realize he chose you and he loves. being rejected by humans goes way down because the master of the universe loves you so much!!!
Author
Two of my favorite words in the world! But God!
Embraced not erased
I frequently think of The Chosen scene, when Jesus embraces the bleeding woman. Oh, how I long to feel embraced by him!
Embraced, not erased! Amen and glory be to God.
selected not rejected
Thank you for your message today! Although I was drawn to many of the phrases, the one that jumped out the most was Selected not rejected. There were several incidents as a child when I was rejected, leaving a deep wound. I’m very aware of this in current situations and I try not to overreact in current situations because of the old pain, but sometimes I still feel that old feeling.
Esteemed not demeaned. From childhood I was told I was stupid, a dummy~that I wouldn’t amount to anything. I believed this for decades. I missed out on many opportunities because I felt I wasn’t worthy. It wasn’t until my husband and God showed and taught me differently that I was deeply loved and cherished.
Father, I ask You to forgive me for I have sinned and fallen short. I ask that you breathe life into my dry bones that I may live as in Ezekiel 37:5. Lord, I ask that you bless all who read this beautiful devotional. I ask that you continue to bless Mrs. Jaynes with the words and the endurance to keep writing these motivational words. Bless her family that they may keep her lifted to fulfill the assignment you placed in her heart. Father, thank You for using her to speak to me, especially in the times I am feeling down. Through her, You have let me know I am enough, I am pre-approved, and today that I am accepted. Lord, I give you all honor, glory & praise. In the blessed name of Jesus, I offer up this prayer, Amen.
Forgiven not forsaken. I always take something meaningful from your devotion and the Word! Thank you
Delivered not Destroyed.
Sharon Thank you for this! I always feel encouraged while reading your email. 💞 I would have to say embraced not erased… I struggle with feeling invisible. This season of my life has its own challenges for sure lol
Fully alive not fatally flawed. Though accepted not rejected resonated with me too.
Though I understand that Jesus accepts me just as I am, and forgives me for my sins, I seem to have a hard time believing that. It is a constant battle for me. I don’t really know why.
Protected not neglected
This means alot to me because when I feel neglected and unseen, the word of God protects my heart and mind as I believe in his full acceptance of me.
Thank you for this word.
Father, I ask You to forgive me for I have sinned and fallen short. I ask that you breathe life into my dry bones that I may live as in Ezekiel 37:5. Lord, I ask that you bless all who read this beautiful devotional. I ask that you continue to bless Mrs. Jaynes with the words and the endurance to keep writing these motivational words. Bless her family that they may keep her lifted to fulfill the assignment you placed in her heart. Father, thank You for using her to speak to me, especially in the times I am feeling down. Through her, You have let me know I am enough, I am pre-approved, and today that I am accepted. Lord, I give you all honor, glory & praise. In the blessed name of Jesus, I offer up this prayer, Amen.
Forgiven not forsaken. There are sins in my life that I just can’t understand why God would forgive me for them. I can’t even forgive myself.
Forgiven not foresaken.
Delivered not destroyed.
This was a beautiful reminder that we are continually loved
Selected not rejected. All of my life, somewhere in the deepest part of me, where only God can see, I have felt and been rejected, thrown away like trash, never good enough, even by my own family, but God, my Abba loves me beyond measure, He is King of my heart and Lord of my life, my faithful companion and friend. Every single step, every breath, every moment, I find HIM surrounding me.
Thank you for sharing. I needed this!!!
Embraced by a loving Father walking with me right where I am in life.
Esteemed not demeaned
Because I never felt esteemed by my earthly family, I am so grateful to be esteemed by God.
All lines spoke to me but there were two that stood out more; Selected not Rejected and Cleansed Within not Trapped in Sin.
selected. NOT rejected!
Esteemed not demeaned spoke the loudest to me.
It’s been a really hard year of being rejected by two sisters and realizing how my childhood stuff has burdened my sons as much as I didn’t want it to.. I’ve been reading your book When You Don’t Like Your Story and your story is very similar to mine.
Embraced, not erased. Thank you, Jesus!🙏🏻🩵
Protected not neglected… I need it every day!!
Selected not Rejected and Embraced not Erased.
I am such a blessed wife, mom, and nana and I give so much to my family, my friends, and my job. However, I feel unappreciated and invisible. I just want to feel appreciated. I’m a giving person and I know not everyone is like me, but I just want to be seen and not feel invisible so much of the time. Oh how I would love for my adult children to give me real tight loving hugs every now and then (hugs are so healing), for friends to be a loyal as I am to them, and for co-workers to really SEE me. With all this said, I KNOW that my GOD sees me, because He shows me in so many ways. But the one thing I can’t get from Him is a warm, loving hug….to be embraced. Thank you for this today, Sharon. You truly have a gift.
Author
Thank you sweet friend. Im hugging you right now!
even when I am alone and not for sure of the future I have a Heavenly Father who never leaves me or forsakes me,
when friends and family turn away I still have Jesus. this was a great devotion
Selected not Rejected.
As someone who has felt rejected all my life easily,that phrase stood out to me!
Thank you
All through my life I have never felt good enough.
The story resonated with me.
If it weren’t for knowing of Gods redeeming love, I’m not sure where I’d be today. I love your messages
I really like that I’m “Empowered not Overpowered.” I’m 74 years old and spent a good part of my life in a religious system that taught me otherwise–especially by two men I still highly respect–my husband and my father, both of whom were preachers. I don’t blame them as they were just teaching what they’d been taught. Thank God for revealed truth in that area!
Forgiven not foresaken
Knowing Our Holy Father loves me so much and forgives me of all my sins and shortcomings; and He doesn’t hold them against me. Wow 😢😢
Embraced by a loving Father who is my constant companion wherever I am in life.
Empowered not over powered! This means so much to me! I am a child of divorce. My biological father said he loved me, but never had anything to do with me. My second father who raised me said he loved me, but was very verbally abusive and demeaning in my years growing up from the age of two on Till much later in my life.
I then married a man I love very much, but was also divorced and had two children. We now have a blended family. I struggle with the same feelings over and over again instead of feeling free to be who I am. I’m always trying to do something to feel accepted and to feel empowered
I found myself really resonating with your writing and the story of the woman. I, too, have felt reject even by my own family. The affirmation I like the best is Fully Alive Not Fatally Flawed! I am my father’s daughter and he does love me even when others do not.
I’m in a similar situation Kathy. Seems many of us are struggling with this. Political views and peoples’ different perceptions of who God is. Having issues with speaking truth into certain family members who are going down paths that aren’t godly, but they feel they are. Not for me to “fix” them, but by speaking out, I have lost them. Right now, there is silence between us, but I am praying for God to work this good. Being still is what I’m hearing loud and clear. Focus on Jesus, His word. He is ordering our steps as we speak. Keep Trusting. He promises good for those who love Him. He upholds us with His righteous right hand. He NEVER leaves or forsake us. Keep reading the Bible truths. Soak in Jesus. The holy spirit is alive and working. Praying His peace, mercy and grace over us all. 🙏🏽
Forgiven not forsaken
Despite my transgressions.
Thank you Lord
“Embraced not Erased”
That’s how I felt when my sole mate proposed to me over sixty years ago
My husband is now and ANGEL in Heaven – God rest his beautiful Sole.
Blessings Sharon
Veronica 🦋🦋🦋🌈🌈🌈
Protected not Neglected
I’ve been feeling like I am the one who always has to make the first move to contact friends and family. That I am “out of sight out of mind”.
As a survivor of domestic violence, I’d have to say delivered not destroyed stands out for me. My God delivered me and didn’t let the violence destroy me!!!
I am Embraced not Erased!
Fully alive not fatally flawed!
Wow I love this reading it me oh Lord amen
All of these resonate with me. Especially, Rejected- I am selected by my heavenly father.
“Forgiven not forsaken” means the most to me, Ever since I was a little girl I’ve been chastised for doing or thinking things that are not true, and ignored when I tell the truth.
Goodmorning Beautiful ladies! 🌞
I would have to say Esteemed not Demeaned. My husband is a Narcissist and I have to work very hard to see myself differently than how i feel about myself around him.
Blessings to All of You! Happy Holidays!
Delivered but not destroyed because I am waiting on His deliverance right now.
Selected, not rejected. I joined a young mother’s group after moving in to our new home. I was watching my grandson while his mother worked. We met at a different home each week for snacks and playtime. When it was my turn to host I excitedly prepared my home, the snacks and opened my front door. No one came. No phone calls. I still feel the ache and emptiness. His arms sustained me and I am so thankful for salvation. I needed to hear this today, thank you.
O Susan, my heart is broken for you. I would come to your home. I would chose you to be my friend. You are a chosen, special, wonderful lady. I am giving you the biggest hug.
Selected not rejected. The whole devotion spoke to me. I have been rejected by people close to me. I need to remind myself God has selected me to be his Daughter.
So thankful for Jesus and his redemption attitude towards the feminine heart of creation!
Embraced, not erased! I’m at that later stage in life where I feel very much set aside; not needed any longer. This devotional was very encouraging; thank you!
It is so awesome to realize that in a world that rejects you over the littlest of things, God chose us to be apart of big things. He chose us first!! Nothing else matters.
Selected not rejected.
Waking up to over 44 years of psychological abuse…husband left me 4 years ago –
But God has been faithful
Sharing with my granddaughter that is 18 and struggling through life with friends.
The one that really spoke to me was selected not rejected. God chose me saved me and is making me more like Him. His grace is suffient for me.
Forgiven not Forsaken!!
Selected not rejected.
Empowered not overpowered
I am relating to “Empowered not Overpowered.”
I have some tough decisions to make since my mom recently graduated to Heaven and I am the POA over finances. One of my siblings is focusing on the material items that were left to her. Here is my prayer:
Lord, I don’t want anger or frustration to drive my decisions. Lord, I want to honor my mother and glorify You during this process. I don’t want to enable but instead execute things according to Your will and Your will alone. Help me to remain in You and rely on Your word during this challenging season. AMEN 🙂
All of them are spot on, but I choose “esteemed not demeaned” .
Selected not rejected and fully alive not fatally flawed. My social awkwardness means I talk too much and answer questions that were not directed to me. Worse yet I forget not to speak and correct others.
SELECTED NOT REJECTED 🙏
Forgiven not Forsaken spoke to me! Thank God for His forgiveness! Thank you so much for this devotional!
Embraced!
Good morning.
Thank you so much for this. It came right in time. Sometimes (most of the times lately) I feel unloved, not appreciated and useless. No matter how much I try, it is never enough. Thank you for this.
Selected not Rejected means the very most to me. I’m almost 64 years old and have been in several relationships over the years, but no man has ever “selected” me to be his wife. I have felt “rejected” more times than I care to remember. But, I know God has selected me and I cling to that. Because He is the only one who truly matters. Thank you, Sharon!
Selected not rejected..
Going on second divorce from my same husband..1st time married 40 years..remarried after 12yrs apart..6 months later getting divorced again. But God is good and I’m still standing strong! Amen!!
Its hard to choose one.. I lived with the comparison complex for a very long time.. and then reminded of my past sins for years… so if I have ti pick one…
Selected not Rejected
Embraced not Erased.
Just what I needed to hear today!
God Bless!
Forgiven not forsaken —speaks to my heart!❤️🙏🏼
Being rejected with adult child.. so heartbreaking! But know Jesus loves him and loves me … also know He is working….blessed reassurance
Protected not neglected
Embraced not erased…. I am in a family situation where someone is trying to erase me but that you Lord I am Embraced by Jesus. I claim that today ion Jesus name!
Very timely message! Was feeling rejected by manager. Thanks for sharing.
Forgiven not Forsaken! Over and over again, I have to remind myself of this as it feels like my past always seems to catch up with me and reminds me again what a Mighty and Great God that we serve that he sees me and still loves and forgives me.
Cleansed within not Trapped in sin
Esteemed not demeaned!
Selected not Rejected
I would like to read this book, it looks very helpful for everyone. God bless you!
Selected not Rejected. Being rejected really hurts when it’s by your own siblings.
Selected not rejected means the most as the rest fall in place. I’m thankful He selected me to be his daughter. I do feel rejected by others but I know I have a beautiful future in heaven.
Forgiven not forsaken .
Thank you for sharing this!
How timely God is! I have been feeling very depressed and lonely. This was a wonderful reminder that He chose me, He loves me. I need to cling to those promises!
We work with a ministry that works at a homeless encampment. Anytime I’m there, I try to make sure the people feel seen.
Esteemed, not demeaned – HALLELUJAH!
The more I read scripture, the more intimately I get to know God/Jesus/Holy Spirit. Every time the Holy Spirit speaks (like He did with this article) at the perfect time, I am amazed as it cements my faith in Him more and more. I was just talking with my husband about how I felt a situation made me feel ‘less than’ once again and why. I reached out to encourage a friend who is also dealing with this issue. Then I opened today’s devotional and laughed out loud and for JOY! What perfect words of truth & peace now flood my soul. Sharon. I am going to print out the graphic and post it on my mirror. Thank You for being a vessel for the Holy Spirit in my life again today. BLESS YOU!
Author
That is a great idea! And post it to your friends!
All of these apply. Thank GOD for JESUS and the HOLY SPIRIT! 💔❤️🩹❤️
P.S. This will get posted on my bathroom mirror as a daily reminder! Thanks!
Fully Alive Not Fatally Flawed
-Thank You
Selected not rejected. Going through a hard time as Pastor’s wife if feeling strongly rejected. Thank you for reminding me of who’s selection and acceptance truly matters most
Thank you for reminding us that we are the apple of God’s eye.
Lord I thank you that I am “Protected and not Neglected
Embraced, not erased! I wish I didn’t feel erased, but my heart feels what it feels. Everyday I count my blessings and pray for belonging. It’s so sad, but the ones who make me feel most erased are those that consider themselves the best Christians. I keep telling myself that God sees all, knows all and can see into my heart. But, it does still hurt! Thank you for always delivering a meaningful message!
Protected Not Neglected
I feel very “alone” in my season of life right now with my mother moving away to retirement and my son left for college…
Fully alive not fatally flawed
All the affirmations mean so much! But as one daughter of God who has often felt rejected, I would say “selected, not rejected” means the most. Thank you for this. I am going to print it to give to my daughter. 🩷
Forgiven not forsaken. Forgiving myself is hard for me, so I feel so blessed that God forgives me willingly and with so much grace.
Selected not Rejected – because my boss who I’ve worked for the last 6 years, chose to let me go. So, it’s nice to know that God would select me and not reject me like people do.
Author
He will never reject you!!!!
Fully alive not fatally flawed.
Forgiven not forsaken – this covers so much! All of life, in fact – I am never forsaken, because Jesus died; He bore the burden of my sin and God, my heavenly Father treasures me as ‘the apple of [His] eye. This small phrase still knocks the socks off me every time I see or hear it. It’s almost unbelievable – except that Jesus says it’s true! Praise God and Thank you Sharon!
Knowing I am Forgiven not Forsaken for past mistakes is a blessing.
I am selected not rejected. Also, I am delivered not destroyed. Thank you Sharon.
Esteemed, not demeaned
Hello Sharon,
I love this and I printed this and framed for study office, so good!!!! We are so blessed !!!!
Selected not rejected. One of my top verses in the bible is Genesis 16:13 which speaks to “you are the God who sees me”. Thank you for your post today. It was exactly what I needed at this time. Praise God and thank you for your faithfulness.
Forgiven not forsaken is my daily reminder that I am a child of God, no matter my past bad choices. I could not make it without him!
Forgiven not forsaken…thank you Jesus!
This is my next Bible study for the women’s group at Augusta Vineyard. Is there a leaders guide?
Living a life where people talk about you, making me feel rejected not accepted in any situation. My family have told lies about me for years and it is sad because I try to “keep up appearances”, even within my church. I speak the truth and get rebutted for it.
I needed this today. Thank you so much! All my life my prayer to God is ‘please, make me a better person. ‘ I am realizing that He already has by claiming me as His daughter.
Selected not rejected!!! Oh the power we have being a daughter of the King! So very thankful!
Empowered not Overpowered
Selected not rejected!
Through Jesus, I am “Embraced and not Erased”. In the many storms and heartaches of life, it’s very easy to feel erased or invisible. A season of extreme grief, illness, or relational difficulties can leave you in a place of separation and isolation. That situation can leave you exhausted and shake your belief that Jesus is with you. Emotions and .feeling erased can deplete your strength. Then you are more susceptible to the lies of the enemy.
That is when you should “Be Still”. Rest in the presence of Jesus. It’s not a feeling, It’s in the knowing.
Be Still and Know.
Know that He is present.
He will reveal himself.
In the Silence , you will Know.
Wow! This devotion resonated with so many and I found it hard to pick just one. But I’m going to say “esteemed not demeaned”.
I feel them all but picking one it would be ’embraced not erased’.
Fully alive not fatally flawed!
I feel fully alive despite my declining health. T hanks for your message that reminds me of God’s love
I feel fully alive despite my declining health. T hanks for your message that reminds me of God’s love
Embraced not erased and empowered not overpowered. Mrs. Sharon, Your messages always come with such grace and class. I feel like i am sitting with a wise lady when I read your messages , I’m not big on empty flattery but thought I should share. SO glad you are writing:). thanks again.
“Fully alive not fatally flawed.” This was so good!
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Thank you!!!
Accepted not rejected. As hard as I try, it seems there are so many people at my school who question the decisions I make as principal.
Cleansed in within not trapped in Sin
Cleansed within not trapped in Sin
Embraced not Erased.
I Love them all. I love your weekly emails!❤️
Empowered not Overpowered
When I look at my situation I am overwhelmed. I have to remember to keep my eyes on Jesus.
My help comes from the Lord, Maker of Heaven and earth!
This definitely resonates with me. I picked the phrase “selected, not rejected.” I’ve had a couple of friendships break up in the past year. I’ve been good to those friends, but when we had a little squabble, I was let go.l— like our friendship was worth nothing. Still, Jesus will always be the friend that sticks closer than any brother! Thank you for your honest and insightful words. ❤️ G 🙌🏼
I Love you God.Please help me to continue in your wll.And please help me understand my walk with you lord 🙏🏿 ❤️..Your word is a lamp unto my feet & a light unto my path..
Thank you Sharon for sharing this. Cried out to God these exact words and then read your post.. I am always lost for words when I see how beautifully our God orchestrates the right message in time just for me when I needed to hear it the most. Thank you God, thank you Jesus and thank you Holy Spirit for this timely words from Your daughter!
Esteemed not demeaned……so much rejection in this season of my journey. I’m 71 and trying to give others grace, as well as myself. Rejection still hurts, doesn’t matter your age. Honestly, I though by now the childish games, high-school type clicks, and the drama would be in the past, I know God has a great plan for me, even now, especially now, and I claim it and look forward to what it is. There is so much more to learn! I will dust myself off and keep on moving forward.
I always enjoy your writings, Sharon!..Cleansed within not Trapped in sin. 💞
Cleansed within not scarred by sin.
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Amen!
Selected not Rejected
My brother’s family have always felt that anyone outside their unit was not accepted entirely in their fold, which my brother embedded in them.
Now my brother has cancer and it has made clear by two of his daughters that I’m maybe intruding in their family.
He is my brother, my family and I’m feeling very hurt.. we have lost both parents and two sisters, the latest July 31st. Now this cancer has raised its ugly head in my brother.
I am divorced, no children and living in the same area as my brother. He and my sister in law have been very good to me and I love them very much. I love all my family very much and have tried to honor their family bond. Now two of his daughters are trying to show their control over their Dad. I have been informed about his health status and medical tests but recently realized I’m not totally in the loop.
Is it wrong of me to feel left out of not knowing important details?
Should I. Emphasize that I am his sister and deserve to know these things?
I am hurt but also angry with them!
What would be God’s answer for my situation?
Cleansed within, not trapped in sin.
They all spoke to me, thank you for sharing!
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Thank you,sweet friend!
Embraced not erased
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Always embraced!
The one that I keep reminding my myself — selected not rejected. For years, I’ve had no one reach out to visit, hang out, etc., even though I’ve reached out. I’m 66 and spend weeks and weeks by myself (more like years). I do myself to encourage myself in the Lord, but sometimes I’m worn out. I can’t even remember the last time someone encouraged me or made me feel like somebody. Yes, I know scripture but it says that we were not meant to be alone. I could go on and on but the more I’m rejected/ignored the more introverted I become.
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I want to encourage you to join a Bible study, exercise group, or some other group activity. It’s not good to be alone all the time. As you can see in the comments, there are many who feel the same loneliness.
Embraced not erased. No matter what I go through, He embraces me with His love and hope, even when family would choose to erase my presence from their lives.
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He’s always there.
Confidence in Christ..when I feel I can’t do something I know god gives me his confidence to try
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Praise ago. We will never succeed if we never try.
Selected not rejected ..
God works in mysterious ways I needed this ..today! Thank you 🙏🏻
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He knew just when you needed to read it!
I was totally hopeless when I was 21, was going to end my life when I was changing channels on TV and Pat Robertson was preaching and pointed to me, I felt, that I was a sinner in need of a Savior, I said if you’re really there save me! Been walking with my Lord now for 45 years ❤️
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What an amazing story!
I’m very aware what you are going through. I was very introverted, had no friends, then I came to a different church where I was totally accepted and I learned that I need to pray for friends and God answered, I have 3 very close friends now, I am really blessed, I pray the same for you 🙏🏻
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A welcoming church can make all the difference.
Selected not rejected
I’ve always had low self esteem through out my adult life. I learnt to say I had God esteem, so the affirmation – esteemed not demeaned spoke to me.
“Forgiven – not forsaken”
Thank you! This was good. Sometimes I’ve felt rather “lost in the shuffle” so to speak. It’s good to remember that God never leaves me or forsakes me ( abandons me, tosses me away, or leaves me behind.)
Thank You Lord!
Protected NOT neglected!