For most of my adult life I have been on a quest to truly understand how God sees me. What does He really think of me?  It is easy to read verses that speak to this question. But to really know it deep in my heart, to really believe it - that is the challenge.

One morning as I was out for my daily walk I was really wrestling with this once again. My self esteem was at a low point. It wasn't because of any particular circumstance. It was just there - the big question - "God, what do you really think of me?" I wanted my self esteem to be hinged on what He thought and not on what others thought of me. I wanted it to come from Him.

As I walked a bright red cardinal flitted across my path. It was so beautiful! I thrilled at the sight of that bright flash of color as it flitted into the bushes along the road. It was bright and perky. It stood out against the browns and greens of the summer foliage. It was beautiful just for the sake of being beautiful. What other reason would God have given it scarlet feathers except for my enjoyment?

I began to tell Him how much joy I was getting from this gorgeous creature of His. How He had done good in creating it like He did. How seeing it made joy bubble up in my heart. How I delighted in its beauty. At that moment, in a quiet corner of my heart, God spoke to me. He said, "That is exactly how I feel about you. I delight in you. You are beautiful. I take great joy in watching you flit through you days, going about your activities. To me you are a brilliant flash of color, a gorgeous creature in whom I delight!"

My question was answered. He continues to answer my question.  Now, whenever I see a cardinal, I see a personal love note from Him. It always reminds me of His undying love and adoration towards me.

Ask God your question. He will answer it.
Melody Smith

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