Quotable

What we really need is to turn from any preoccupation with self to Christ. God redeemed us because of who He is, not because of who we are or even what He could make us become. God loves us because He is love, not because we are lovable or lovely. Here is a solid basis for deep confidence. The teaching that God valued me so highly that Christ died for me may make me initially feel more secure, but that feeling will only last so long as I can continue to have this sense of self-worth. In turning away from the One who loves and moving toward myself as the object of His love, I am being robbed of the true joy and freedom that is found in Him alone! To know that God loves me not because of who I am but because of who He is really sets me free and gives me a security that the gospel of self-esteem can never produce. —Dave Hunt and T. A. McMahon