The need to be accepted

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

We found that the first mutual need every human has is the need for love. We must both give it and receive it. God lovingly set the benchmark at the cross.

The second common need we all share is the need to be needed. We crave to belong. Jesus invited us to be part of His family... ­ those who are forgiven.

The third greatest need we all have is this: THE NEED TO BE ACCEPTED

I grew up in a Christian home having the loving acceptance of my mom and dad. With them I didn't have to prove anything. I knew I was accepted, so I was at rest. As a result, I have a lot of self-confidence and worth.

Some of us have a black cloud following us wherever we go. Someone important hurt or rejected us years ago, and we allow that memory to stay alive and well. We beat ourselves up for our failures, thinking no one else fails like I do. Some of the world's most successful people are also the most insecure. We can work ourselves silly trying to prove ourselves to people who really don't care about us.

But God said something absolutely amazing, "Whosoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved." He also said, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins, and cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness."

He is only waiting for us to call upon Him. He will accept us no matter how bad we've sinned. His grace is enough. His mercies are new every morning. God will never reject us when we humble our hearts before Him.

So why do we look to the world for its acceptance, when we already have acceptance from the King? We are accepted. Congratulations!

Now that we know that God has met our three most common needs to be loved, to belong and to be accepted, why not share this great news with someone who is still searching.

Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org