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Acceptance leading to peace
I grew up in an environment of criticism, of being accepted when I behaved perfectly. Knowing that God forgave and accepted the imperfect me has given me peace in this life and assurance of eternity in heaven when I die.
I am so thankful that I have eternal life and know that God has forgiven, accepted, and loved me, because sometimes I have found it hard to accept my imperfect self.
I think I have always found it painful when others notice my weaknesses, because of having a critical mom. A memory that haunted me at any hint of failure was Mom finding 10-year old me reading a book when I was supposed to be folding laundry. Hands on her hips, she said, "Marci, I just don't know if you are ever going to amount to anything!" It is still hard for me to accept when I fail at anything, but to know that God knows me inside and out, both bad and good, and still is full of love for me has been so freeing. Over time it has changed me to show grace and to be more forgiving, accepting and loving toward others.
I have realized that God showed His grace and mercy to me by sending His Son to die on the cross in punishment for my sins. That payment for my sins is why I have peace that when I die I will be with God in heaven for eternity, and I am so grateful for that assurance of salvation.
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