ARE YOU GOD'S BELOVED?

 
As the new year begins, many people are eager to set goals and work diligently toward their dreams. Ambition and hard work are valuable, but there’s something even more important—ensuring that God is building with you. Without His partnership, even the most determined efforts can fall short.
Psalm 127:1-2 reminds us:

“Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he gives HIS BELOVED sleep.”

This passage paints a powerful picture—God provides strength, security, and rest to those He calls His beloved. The real question is, “Am I God’s beloved?”

What Does It Mean to Be God’s Beloved?

Being God’s beloved isn’t about working harder or striving to earn His favour. It’s about receiving His mercy and walking in His grace. The Apostle Paul writes:
“So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy.” (Romans 9:16).

Paul further echoes this truth by quoting the prophet Hosea:
“I will call them MY PEOPLE, which were not my people; and HER BELOVED, which was not beloved.” (Romans 9:25).

In other words, becoming God’s beloved is not dependent on personal effort but on God’s mercy. He calls and accepts those who trust in Him. Through Christ, even those who once felt far from God can receive the identity of HIS BELOVED.

Becoming His Beloved Through Christ

The path to becoming God’s beloved begins by placing your trust in Christ and His finished work on the cross. This isn’t about religious rituals or personal achievements—it’s about receiving what Jesus has already accomplished. 

Ephesians 1:6 affirms this:
“To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the BELOVED.”

If you believe in Jesus and accept His sacrifice, you are already His beloved. This identity isn’t something you have to strive to attain; it’s a position God grants freely through faith.

Walking in the Identity of God’s Beloved

While becoming God’s beloved is an act of grace, walking in that identity requires daily trust in Him. It’s easy to slip back into self-reliance, but God invites us to live with the assurance that He is at work in our lives. When you walk in the identity of God’s beloved:

● He builds with you – Your efforts are fruitful because they are empowered by His Spirit.

● He watches over you – God’s protection surrounds your endeavours, giving you peace of mind.

● He grants you rest – You experience His supernatural rest even in the midst of hard work.
Psalm 127:2 highlights this beautifully: “For so He gives His beloved sleep.”

Practical Steps for the New Year
As you step into this new year, remember that life is not just about personal willpower or ambition. True success comes from walking with God, trusting His mercy, and aligning your plans with His purpose.
Here are a few ways to walk in the identity of God’s beloved:

i. Prioritize God’s Presence – Before chasing goals, seek God’s guidance and invite Him into your plans.

ii. Rest in His Grace – Trust that God’s favour, not your effort, is the key to lasting success.

iii. Surrender Your Plans – Allow God to shape your ambitions, knowing that His plans for you are good (Jeremiah 29:11).

iv. Celebrate His Mercy – Reflect on how God’s mercy has already shaped your life and give thanks for His faithfulness.

In Conclusion
Those who believe in Jesus Christ are already God’s beloved. They walk in His mercy, rely on His strength, and experience the peace that comes from knowing He is building with them.
As you pursue your goals this year, remember that you don’t have to labour alone. Let God build with you, watch over you, and give you rest. You are His beloved, and in that identity, you will find both purpose and peace.