How to Live Like You’re Loved

We all know what it’s like to be in a relationship where offenses happen. Sometimes, we hurt people by accident, and other times, it’s intentional. In many cases, a mediator is needed—someone who can step in, bridge the gap, and bring reconciliation. The Bible tells us that the greatest conflict in existence is between humanity and God. On one side, we have a perfect, holy, and righteous God. On the other, we have sinful, broken people who cannot stand in His presence on their own. We need a mediator. The good news is that God Himself has provided one—Jesus Christ.

In Hebrews 9:13-28, we see that under the Old Covenant, the people of Israel could only approach God through the temporary covering of animal sacrifices. These sacrifices were a reminder that sin required a payment, but they were never enough to fully remove guilt. However, Jesus came as the perfect and final sacrifice. He took our place, bearing the punishment we deserved, so that we could be made right with God once and for all. His sacrifice is not just temporary—it is eternal.

This changes everything. Because of Jesus, we don’t have to live under the weight of guilt and shame. We don’t have to try to earn God’s favor by working harder or punishing ourselves for our past mistakes. His blood has paid for our sins completely, meaning we can live in freedom. Yet, so many of us still struggle with believing this truth. We find ourselves striving for approval, replaying our failures, or wondering if we’ve done enough to stay in God’s grace. But the message of the gospel is clear: Jesus’ sacrifice was enough. There is nothing more we need to do except receive it.

Because of Christ, our standing before God is secure. The Old Covenant required constant sacrifices, but Jesus’ death on the cross fulfilled the law once and for all. Now, we are no longer seen as sinners but as beloved children. We are heirs of God’s promises, and nothing can separate us from His love. This truth should reshape how we see ourselves and how we live each day. Instead of living in fear of judgment, we can walk with confidence, knowing that God delights in us.

Living like we are loved means embracing four key responses: first, we receive the perfect gift of salvation, understanding that we can’t earn it but only accept it by faith. Second, we rest in unconditional grace, refusing to carry burdens that Jesus already took upon Himself. Third, we reset our perspective, fixing our eyes on the eternal hope we have in Christ. And finally, we relax in God’s pleasure, knowing that He truly delights in His children.

Hebrews 9:27-28 reminds us that Christ will return, not to deal with our sins—because that has already been done—but to bring salvation to those who eagerly wait for Him. This means our future is not uncertain or filled with fear, but with hope and anticipation. We have been given an eternal inheritance, secured by Jesus Himself. As we live our lives, we should not only remember this truth but let it shape the way we think, act, and worship.

So this week, let’s live as people who are truly loved. Let’s stop striving for what has already been given to us. Let’s let go of shame, rest in grace, and embrace our identity as God’s children. Because of Jesus, we are forgiven, we are free, and we are forever loved. Jesus died in our place as a better sacrifice so we can live in His place as beloved children. Let’s live like it!

- Adapted from sermons preached across our 3 campuses on 2/23/25.