One of the most life-giving statements ever said to me is “Remember to Whom You Belong.” It was said to me during one of the lowest points in my life. I felt broken with little sense of hope. My life felt shattered. I received that statement like a cup of cold water on a hot and weary day, like one parched with thirst.  I was thrown a life line to cling to in that statement and I hung onto it.

Through the years, the truth of that statement has allowed me to keep going when I thought I couldn’t take another step. It has enabled me to put one foot in front of the other through countless trials along the way . The truth of that statement has also gifted me with countless joy and deep inner contentment  which is impossible to describe, for how can one put into words how much it means to journey with God alongside of you loving you.

“Remember to whom you belong.”I have carried the truth of that statement in my heart and spirit  for almost 30 years. Thank you Jolene. You have been one of the greatest gifts I have known in this life.​ You are such a  wise and beloved friend. Your words reminded me that God uttered those words to me when I was a young child; reminding me that I was God’s child,  and that God was raising me. Those words were also a life line then, enough to get me through years of trial, and to also fill me with indescribable joy.

When you feel alone with little to no sense of hope, remember to whom you belong.  There are so many things in life that take us to that painful place, heart breaks, loss of every kind,  the inability to live out of who we really are, addictions, rejection of others and sometimes even the church. When you are in that place, receive this life line, “Remember to Whom You Belong.” You are so loved by God, just as you are. You are not forgotten. God has promised, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5  You are not alone. You are God’s beloved.

“Remember to whom you belong.” Those words uttered to me so long ago, have been more life-giving than I can describe. May they be life-giving to you. And when you come across another in a desolate place, may you pass these words along like offering a cup of cold water on a hot and weary day.