The Joy of Belonging

Think about a time when you felt left out—like no one noticed or cared you were there. Maybe it was at a gathering where everyone else seemed connected, or at work when you weren’t included in the conversation. That loneliness stings, doesn’t it? Now picture a lost sheep wandering through a busy town, surrounded by people yet totally alone. That’s a picture of how we can feel sometimes.

But here’s the good news: you’re never truly alone. You belong to someone greater than you can imagine. First, you’ve got your family and friends who love you—imperfectly, sure, but they’re there. Even better, you belong to God. He’s like the shepherd in Jesus’ story (Luke 15), who drops everything to find that one lost sheep. That’s how much He loves you. He’ll search every corner of your life to bring you back to Him.

And get this: before God spoke the world into existence—before the stars, the oceans, or even Adam and Eve—He had you in mind. You’re not an accident or an afterthought. You’re His from the start, chosen to be part of His family. That’s the kind of love that changes everything. Today, He’s inviting you to rest in that belonging.

Let’s Pray:

“Lord, thank You for choosing me before time began. I want to belong to You fully. Fill me with the joy of knowing I’m Yours. Amen.”

Questions to Reflect On:

1. What’s your favorite part of God’s creation? Why does it speak to you?
2. God thought of you before the world began—what are 10 things He might love about you?
3. Who do you belong to today—family, friends, God? How does that shape your life?

Take Action:

Look around today—find someone who seems alone and offer them a smile, a conversation, or a coffee. Be the hands of Jesus showing they belong too.