“For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” 1 Corinthians 13:12 NIV
For some, it’s a great delight to be fully known, for others, it fills them with dread. When I first became a Christian, I was thrilled to realise God’s all-knowingness. He knew and understood me, often when I didn’t understand myself or why I reacted the way I did. Human beings long for another who will truly know them, love them and appreciate the uniqueness of their heart and mind. In Christ, I found that Someone, and it was such a relief to know I was accepted as I was with all my foibles and idiosyncrasies.
Yet others find being fully known a frightening thought that fills them with shame. They feel exposed. They mentally take stock of every wrong thing they have ever said or done, and believe that God will never have anything more to do with them, especially if they’ve been unable to break unhealthy habits or addictions. But God’s love isn’t based on our ability to live a righteous life. It’s based on his character. God’s heart is for us, and he welcomes us into his presence. He wants our highest good, which is to know we are loved and accepted despite what we may have done or what has happened to us.
W. Tozer said it well, “Jesus Christ knows the worst about you. Nonetheless, He is the one who loves you most.” When God draws our attention to the dark places in our lives, it’s not to disgrace or humiliate us but because he wants to bring healing and wholeness.
Other posts on this topic here.
