Not Earned, Just Given - God's Love For You - Ep. 2

Introduction

This tutorial focuses on understanding God's unconditional love and acceptance, as highlighted in Carrie Pickett's episode "Not Earned, Just Given." This guide will help you grasp the concept that righteousness is a gift rather than a reward for performance. By acknowledging this truth, you can deepen your relationship with God, restore your self-image, and enhance your connections with others.

Step 1: Understand Unconditional Acceptance

• Recognize that God’s love is not based on your achievements or performance.
• Reflect on any beliefs that suggest you must earn God’s favor. These may include feelings of inadequacy or the need to meet certain standards.
• Embrace the idea that righteousness is a gift that is given freely, not something you must strive to attain.

Step 2: Reflect on Your Relationship with God

• Spend time in prayer or meditation to contemplate your current relationship with God.
• Ask yourself how the belief that you need to earn love affects your interactions with God.
• Journal about your feelings and thoughts to gain clarity on your spiritual journey.

Step 3: Restore Your Self-Image

• Acknowledge that your worth is inherent and not dependent on external validation or achievements.
• Focus on positive affirmations that reinforce your value as a person created and loved by God.
• Consider seeking support from scripture or inspirational readings that emphasize your identity in Christ.

Step 4: Cultivate Genuine Connections with Others

• Approach relationships with the understanding that everyone deserves acceptance and love without conditions.
• Practice empathy and compassion in your interactions, recognizing that others may also struggle with feelings of inadequacy.
• Share your insights about God’s love with friends or family to strengthen your bonds and encourage them in their journeys.

Step 5: Live in Freedom and Confidence

• Make a conscious decision to embrace the freedom that comes from knowing you are accepted by God.
• Engage in activities that reflect your new understanding, such as community service, mentoring, or participating in church groups.
• Celebrate small victories in your spiritual growth by acknowledging moments when you feel confident in your identity.

Conclusion

By understanding that God's love and righteousness are freely given, you can transform your relationship with Him and with yourself. Embrace this truth to experience deeper connections with others and a more fulfilling life. As you move forward, continue to reflect on these principles and share them with those around you to foster a community of acceptance and love.