Beloved

Therefore, my beloved brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and my crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. Philippians 4:1

 

A woman whose Bible study I attended would often call the class, “Beloved.”  She was sincere but it was just too sweet (for me).

I am not the “sweet sister” or “dear one” type. “Beloved” sounded no better. Even in a blog post, sweet names for women tend to turn me away. Don’t even get me started on being a “Jesus girl!”

When I hear these terms, I think someone is trying to schmooze me and they expect way too little of the faithful women of God.

Out of curiosity, sometime during that Bible Study, I studied how the word “beloved” is used in the scriptures. Clearly, it is not a word for sissies or one to be discounted. It conveys a truth about the Holy Trinity and God’s love for His people.

God said to Jesus, “You are my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased.” Moses spoke this word as part of a blessing on Benjamin (Deuteronomy 33:12). Paul used it to describe his love and affection for believers that he had come to know as he traveled and preached (Romans 12:19, 1 Corinthians 4:14).

What stands out about the word is that anytime a mere man uses it (except the many times it is used in Song of Solomon as he describes his beloved), it was about loving the ones God loves. “Beloved brother” and “beloved children” are terms Paul used frequently.

Sigh. Wrong again.

What I discovered is that it is a perfectly good word to be used with regard to the people of God. In fact, it is a reminder that we are the beloved of God. The Bible uses it referring to people’s beloved family members, too. But, most often, it is used as a term for the family of God.

So, when someone calls us “beloved children,” ”beloved sister,” the “beloved of God,” or just plain “beloved,” it should encourage us. Someone has recognized our faith, or, is perhaps reminding us that even in His correction of us, God sees us as His beloved.

To be “the beloved” of God who shows grace, mercy, and faithfulness to His own, is a very good and hopeful thing to hear or see.

So, sweet sister, I am standing firmly against “Jesus girl,” but you can call me “beloved” anytime you want.

Christian sister (and brother), rest in knowing that when we put our faith in Jesus Christ, we are counted among His beloved. What a great place to be.

 

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