I know we aren’t supposed to “judge a book” by its cover, but part of our human condition naturally leans in that direction.

For instance, when you look at this picture, what do you notice?

Yes, me too.  A table that is ready for the dumpster and some pots full of dead stems from last year that need to join it.  

After years of rain, my beautiful old table needs some work.  It belonged to my grandfather, so I am a bit upset that I allowed it to get to this point.  When I started cleaning up my deck, I pulled it near the steps so I could take it down.  I also put those leftover pots full of last years soil and weeds to leave the deck as well.

So back to “judging the book” by its cover.  How many times have we done this with people?  

Or maybe you have judged yourself as hopeless, abandoned, filthy.  Perhaps you have been totally neglected by family and “friends” in your lifetime.

I have good news for you!  God has never left you.  He didn’t abandon you or neglect you.  He LOVES you!

Deuteronomy 7:9
Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments;

Jeremiah 31:3
The LORD has appeared of old to me, saying:“ Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.

Like the first appearance of these pots, do you ever feel worthless and hopeless?  Maybe you think God could never forgive you for the things you’ve done?

1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Psalm 106:1
Praise the LORD! Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.

Mark 3:28
Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter;  (Vs. 29 – unless you blaspheme the Holy Spirit.)

Ephesians 1:7

In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace …

There is ALWAYS hope with Jesus.  ALWAYS!  

All we have to do is turn to Him and allow Him to clean us up — from the inside out.  

Isaiah 61:3
To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.

He can turn you into something BEAUTIFUL!

Just like my little plants who survived, with care they will multiply and produce some awesome flowers this summer.

If you feel like the weeds of life are choking you and overpowering you — look to the Father.  He is here for you.


God bless you all!