I am Loved

Today I’m welcoming my friend Wendy Blight to share from her new Bible study on 1 John, I Am Loved: Walking in the Fullness of God’s Love. Plus she’s giving away a copy to one of my readers below!

Walk in the Light

John wrote this letter, 1 John, to the church, to believers. He saw that many in the church were choosing to walk in disobedience, walking outside the freedom and fellowship they had gained at the cross. They were avoiding the light. Many immersing themselves deeper and deeper into sin and darkness.

I get it. I’m guilty of this. When I think certain thoughts, or behave in certain ways, hearing a sermon or reading my Bible can make me squirm. Why? Because light exposes darkness. The light of God’s Word exposes my bad behavior. It shines a light on what I desperately try to hide.

Living in the light requires that our hearts, our actions, our words, our thoughts, our values, and even our schedules align with God’s heart and His character, not with our sinful nature and fallen character.

Oh, how I fail at living in light … often. In fact, it happened smack in the middle of writing this study. Of course!

While writing this study, my husband and I took a trip to New York City. The second day found us stranded in a downpour near Central Park, blocks and blocks from our hotel. With everyone trying to escape the deluge, cabs were scarce. We ran into the closest store to wait it out. But the rain continued. We decided to go for it, running in and out of stores, jumping over and around puddles. Soaked from head to toe, my patience wore thin. My husband and I exchanged words. You see, I had suggested heading back as the first dark clouds rolled in. My husband disagreed and persuaded me to stick it out. So, “I told you so” hijacked my heart. My words grew harsher, as did his. And then, I stepped over the line. You may know that line. Part of me wanted to take them back. To grab his hand, look in his eyes and tell him how sorry I was. But the other side of me … the dark side … reasoned how valid my words were in response to his. Guess which side won out?

You guessed it!

We walked into our hotel room and sat in deafening silence. For hours, no words passed between us.

As I sat staring out the window, my eyes wandered to the bedside table. The light from the lamp illuminated my Bible. The words I’d been studying on light and darkness flooded my mind. Sorrow engulfed my heart. I walked over to my husband, touched his shoulder, peeked my head around his, looked in his eyes and asked for forgiveness. I thought it would be hard, but it wasn’t. The illumination of God’s Word penetrated my heart and melted it. My heart ached that my careless words had hurt my husband so deeply.

And although it took a few hours for my husband to fully surrender his hurt, he did. We enjoyed the rest of our time, experiencing the exciting sights and sounds of New York City, sans any more rain … or darkness!

Friend, we all sin. Every day. Many times a day.

Does that mean this whole light and dark thing creates a forever barrier with God? Can we ever have true fellowship? Can we ever stand in the presence of God fully comfortable, fully welcome?

Yes! Absolutely, yes! We can be comfortable in the presence of a holy God. John reminded us of this in verse 7 when he said the blood of Jesus purifies us from all unrighteousness. You see, God doesn’t require sinlessness … in fact, that’s impossible. Only Jesus is sinless.

God doesn’t require perfection. Only Jesus is perfect.

God simply asks for repentance. When we repent of our sins, He forgives us fully and completely.

I love The Voice translation of John’s words in our passage for today, “walk step by step in the light.”

It’s a daily walk. But, we don’t walk alone. We walk with a loving, forgiving Father who empowers us through His Holy Spirit. He invites us to walk in the light. And at times we may take a wrong step away from the light toward darkness. This misstep may interrupt our fellowship with God.

But, the good news is, we need only turn our hearts back toward our heavenly Father and ask forgiveness. He waits with open arms!

 

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I Am Loved: Walking in the Fullness of God’s Love is for every woman who craves to truly understand, walk confidently in, and live out God’s unconditional, extravagant, lavish love because His love truly changes everything. Watch a sneak peek of the Bible study and download a sample week’s lesson for free here.

The Giveaway

Comment below and one reader will win a copy of Wendy’s I Am Loved Bible study book and teaching DVD. U.S. Addresses only please.

An invitation for you!

Join us for our Online Bible Study of #IAmLoved at Proverbs 31 Ministries. It kicks off January 22 and you can sign up here.

 

 

Wendy Blight is a wife, mother, author, Bible teacher, attorney, and writer for Proverbs 31 Ministry’s First 5 app. Her desire is to help every woman know with confidence she can tackle any problem life presents through God’s Word. Wendy is the author of I Am Loved, I Know His Name, and Living So That Bible studies, and Hidden Joy in a Dark Corner. She lives with her husband, Monty, in Charlotte, North Carolina and loves most when her two children, Lauren (24) and Bo (19), come home to visit and fill their home with lots of love and laughter!

 

61 Comments

  1. I’m very excited to have a a new bible study out from the Wendy’s. Can’t wait to get started.

    1. Stacey, thank you for your kind words. Love knowing you will be walking through 1 John with me. Praying God will open the eyes of your heart to receive fresh truths and and promises as you meet Him in this letter.

      Blessings,

      Wendy

    2. Thanks for being so transparent. Waiting has never been easy for me.Like you I often speak before I think.I am learning to process my comments longer than just answer impulsively. Like Sarah,I often rant at God because of His timing.However, God’s timing has proven time and time again that He has my best interest at heart.

  2. “walk step by step in the light.”
    It’s a daily walk. But, we don’t walk alone. We walk with a loving, forgiving Father who empowers us through His Holy Spirit. He invites us to walk in the light. Love this! Can’t Wait to lean in.

    1. Thank you!! This is why I love different translations. When I read this translation, it opened up the teaching for me in such a fresh way. So thankful it spoke to your heart as well!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy

    1. Thank you, Debbie. Means so much to know you are looking forward to this study on 1 John. The disciple Jesus loves has so many rich teachings in his letter!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy

      1. Wendy it’s also my One Word this year. God is speaking in so many ways to me about love.

  4. Brought tears to my eyes. Been in that awkward situation as I repeatedly insert both feet in my mouth. So thankful Jesus forgives my imperfection!

    1. Yes!! Me too. My family often tells me “The line is here, Wendy. Usually you stay on the right side of the line, BUT at times you step WAY over!!” I speak BEFORE I think. The opposite of what the Lord asks. Thank you for sharing and for reminding me that Jesus does forgive me. 🙂

      Blessings,

      Wendy

  5. I am so excited for this new study!!! I missed the last one! We always need that reminder that we are loved!!!

  6. Thank you, sweet Wendy, for inviting me to guest post on your blog. I know so many of our ministry friends overlap because they have a deep love for studying God’s Word as we do. I miss you!! Trusting God will hand pick the woman who needs to know how loved she is and how God desires for, and will equip, her to live out that love.

    Love you!

    Wendy

  7. “God simply asks for repentance. When we repent of our sins, He forgives us fully and completely.” ❤️

    How lucky are we?! ??

  9. Amen!! So thankful for the blood of Jesus that covers us completely!! It is definitely is a daily walk in the light and often a daily act of repentance. I love the title of this book: Walking in the Fullness of God’s love! Oh how I need to learn this!! I guess we all do. ?

    1. Love that your heart connects with the book’s title. I struggled with believing that truth myself for soooo long. Thank you for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.

      Wendy

  11. My life was changed from the 2014 OBS, Living So That, also by Wendy! I still remember my memory verses from that book, and I go back to that book a lot for reference and reflection.
    I have been through so many trials, and challenges in the past 4 years. I need this study to remind and assure me that God loves me. Although I fall short, although I am so imperfect. I have been feeling lost, and I can’t wait to get back into the word of God with this study.
    I would love to win this book and DVD to help me with the upcoming OBS!

    1. Rene, what a precious gift to read your comment today. It blesses me to hear when God has used teachings He laid on my heart to speak into another woman’s heart. I love that you are joining us for the next study. The time you spend in 1 John will truly transform your heart and reveal in the most sweet and intimate ways God’s incredible, lavish love for you. Not because of my words, but because of God’s Word. You will not leave without knowing and believing it with all your heart!!

  12. I am really looking forward to this Bible study. I have already purchased my book and I am ready to start❣️
    PS I don’t have the DVD though?

  13. It was good to read your devotional this morning. I have blown it so many times and I have felt so guilty and unworthy. I am looking forward to your Bible Study.

    1. Oh, me too, friend. Me too. But, our mistakes never make us unworthy. And God never lays guilt upon us. That is Satan. God works with us by convicting our hearts. Conviction comes from LOVE!! It is a good thing. And, it is what brings change in our lives. I’m so excited you will join us for the study. You will meet God in the pages 1 John, and it will be beautiful and powerful!!

      Wendy

  14. I am looking forward to this study so much! It is so true that God does not require sinlessness or perfection. He loves us in spite of us, and extends His grace and mercy to us as long as we repent and turn bvack toward Him. I love the translation “walk step by step in the light”…what a visual! Thank you, Wendy ?

    3. Hi Annalisa, congrats, you won the giveaway of I Am Loved. Please send your U.S. mailing address to [email protected] and we will get it shipped out to you.
      Thank you,
      Kim Stewart
      Wendy Blight Ministry Team

  15. I cant wait for the bible study I am Loved. That’s my resolution for 2018, I am his, I want to be so in love with Jesus. I need restoration and hope in my life and the only way to reach that is through my Lord.

    1. Ronda, thank you for letting me know you are joining us. I’m excited to see how God meets you and speaks to you in the pages of 1 John. He promises that when we seek Him with all our hearts, we will find Him!! Standing on that promise as you seek to find restoration and hope. God will be faithful for He is our HOPE!! He is our Restorer.

      Blessings,

      Wendy

  16. Currently in the “I crossed that line” situation right now. Please pray for my marriage. Excited to do this bible study!

    1. Praying for you now. For a heart of humility in you and a heart of grace in your husband. For healing and restoration! So excited you are joining us for the study!

      Wendy

  17. It’s so easy to read the words and strive for performance, (in wanting to be close to the LORD.) To follow His son, Our Savior Jesus as our example. And the Holy Spirit as our helper, that we lose sight of who we are to Him. I am so guilty of overtaxing myself to have a relationship with Him, that I miss out on the love He has for me. My word for this year is Be.

    1. What a great word, Debra! I know as you sit and “be” with Jesus, He will slow you down and minister to that part of you that strives and works so hard. I’m praying His peace will overflow in you from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. Asking God to allow you to experience true REST!! Rest in Him.

      Blessings,

      Wendy

  18. I am super excited to be a part of this upcoming study! I am hoping to become more involved in women’s ministry and this will be a great way to learn how to REALLY love & be loved.

    1. Yay! So excited you are joining us for the OBS study. Our OBS community will bless you so much if you love women’s ministry. In fact, we have great leadership opportunities within the ministry if you like it. Or you can take what you learn to your own church!!

      Blessings,

      Wendy

  19. As I struggle with the loss of my best friend to a sudden death, I know I am loved by God. I need to dig this truth deep into my spirit as I heal. Thanks for the reminder and the opportunity to win this book.

    1. I’m so sorry for your loss. Praying the God of all Comfort ministers to your heart in sweet and intimate ways as you grieve your friend’s passing.

      Blessings,

      Wendy

  20. Love when the Wendy’s team up, they are a dynamic duo for sure. I like to refer to them as Wendy squared, picture the superscript Number 2 after their name! They both are so gifted teachers and I love them on First 5, and Wendy P on Read Through the Word. Can’t wait to see Wendy B’s Bible Study, Jan 22 is right around the corner!

    1. Victoria, your words bless us both! We love being known as the Wendys. And thank you for your kind words about our teaching. It is what we both LOVE to do!! I’m thrilled you are joining us for the study. I can’t wait for the 22nd to get here. 🙂

      Blessings,

      Wendy

  21. I am really looking forward to this study – I already have my book but I’d love to win a copy for my mom. Thanks to that Wendy’s for the giveaway!

  22. God has definitely been working with me on thinking, thinking, thinking before I speak.
    I want to do my best to show kindness, but I sure am grateful for the Lord’s grace and forgiveness.
    Thanks for sharing Wendy!

  23. Wendy,
    I simply wish to thank you for your continuous messages of hope and love gifted to many through your books, your online studies with Proverbs 31 and your writings and Saturday teachings with First 5.
    I am excited about your new book , “I Am Loved”. The Lord has had me in waiting and I have found myself needing reassurance of His love. And, since nothing can stop the love of our Father of Compassion, He does faithfully remind me through His Word, music, books, and in our time together.
    I will always hold a special place in my heart for you, Wendy Pope and the other ladies in First 5. Your love for the Lord is contagious! I am certain you reside in the hearts of many women!
    Amen & Hallejuhah!
    Peg

  24. I am really looking forward to this Bible Study. The title and particular book of the Bible grabbed me from the start!

  26. So looking forward to this study! I’m ready to experience God’s love from the heart, not just my head.

  27. I just discovered your devotional on Waiting Well on the Bible App and wondered onto your page to discover this jewel of a message. This year I committed to being more intentional about my relationship with Jesus and that involved being more deligent about putting His word into my heart. It’s only been a few days but it’s mind blowing how much lighter and joyful I feel. I can’t wait for this study! God bless!!

  28. Awesome! I would love to win a copy of Wendy’s I Am Loved Bible study book and teaching DVD. It would be an absolute blessing! I am going through a difficult time.

  29. Just finished my very first solo hike! A bit scary at first but I only got lost once! I love the idea that when we get lost, all we have to do is turn back and God forgives us and we can get right back on the path we were meant to follow! What a blessing to get back on track when you are lost either literally or spiritually! I was so filled with joy at finishing my hike on my own that I barely remember those few panicky moments. What a thrill to conquer the path set before us. How much more thrilling to conquer all the obstacles in our way as well! So worth it in the end! I can’t wait to conquer my next mountain with God!

  30. I was searching for a new bible study to do with a few people and this just might be it ❤️

  31. Oh WePo, I love your honesty girl, I’m not good at waiting either! Why I’ve had to learn “Be still and know that I AM GOD”, psalm 46:10(a) as one of go to verses!
    Thank you !

  32. I read your devo on the Proverbs 31 Ministries site this morning. I quit my job last May and have been seeking God’s direction for my life. I feel like I haven’t had the “lightning bolt” answer as to where He wants me. You opened my eyes this morning as I read the difference between waiting “on” God and waiting “with” God. I had never thought of that before. Today, I will choose to wait “with” Him. I look forward to studying your study “Wait and See”.

  33. Wow… was just talking to God about this “loving me” thing! He sure does work in mysterious ways!

  35. I was just praying about this this morning. Confessing to God that I don’t understand why I want my family near me, but not too close. I don’t want my personal space invaded, and I don’t want alot of affection or even alot of serious communication. I often take out my frustrations on the ones I love, who don’t deserve it, and point out their faults rather their beauty. Inside, I love them so much I know without a doubt, I would die for them. I just don’t show it, that’s for sure. I work min. wage part time, and my husband is in college, so I can’t afford books, CD’s, etc. but this may be a great resourse for me! Along with alot more prayer!!!!!!

  36. I am so glad I came across your devotional on proverbs 31 ministries. Your words-which are really His words-have been very much needed.

    Thank you so much. If the contest is still ongoing-I’d love to win a copy of Loved or Waiting with God (forgive me if I have the name wrong)!

    God bless you

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