God’s Design for Belonging:

Forged in Faith Ministries Newsletter: You Are Worthy of Love and Support: God’s Endless Love: 🥰 

Dear Brothers & Sisters in Faith,

Today, I want to talk to you about something that has been weighing on my heart—ultra-independence. Many of us have been through trials that taught us not to rely on anyone but ourselves. The hurt from those who should have been there but abandoned us, the betrayal of trust, and the disappointments that led us to build walls around our hearts. It's not just independence; it's a defense mechanism. A trauma response.

We may have learned this survival tactic from our parents who did their best but were stretched thin, or from going through traumas that were left unhealed, or from past relationships that left us carrying more than our fair share. Over time, we became experts at managing things on our own, telling ourselves we didn't need anyone. But deep down, this "I can do it all" mentality is often rooted in the fear of being let down, rejected or cast aside—again.

Although, the truth is, this kind of independence keeps not just the hurt out, but it also keeps the love out too. By trusting no one, we shield ourselves from the very things we yearn for: love, companionship, partnership, care, support and a sense of belonging . It’s a hard cycle to break, but I want to remind you today that healing is possible. Acknowledging the trauma is the first step to being set free from it.

In Psalm 46:1, we're reminded that “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” Our Father wants to be the ultimate source of our sustenance and strength. But beyond that, He has created us for community, for relationships that mirror His love. You are worthy of receiving that support. You are worthy of true companionship, partnership and love—not because of what you’ve done, but because of who you are in Christ Jesus.

God made you for connection, for love, and for support, to be one with another through Christ Jesus. You don't have to carry it all by yourself anymore. You don’t have to earn love, and you certainly don’t have to prove your worthiness. God calls you worthy simply because you are His. All Glory to God! 🙌🏼🔥♥️🙏🏼♥️🔥✝️⚔️🩸🛡️🥰💝

Take a step today toward opening your heart, not just to God, but to those He has placed around you. You don’t have to hold everything on your own. You are not alone in this. As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."

✝️Let’s pray together.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today, asking for healing in the deep places of our hearts. Lord Jesus, You know the wounds we’ve carried and the walls we’ve built in response to past hurts. Help us to trust again, Lord Jesus, first in You Father God and then in the people You have placed in our lives to walk in life together with. Heavenly Father, Teach us to receive love, friendship, companionship, and knowing that we are worthy of each of these. Let Your perfect love cast out all fear, doubt and guide us into true partnership with those who reflect Your heart. In Jesus' holy and mighty name, we pray. Amen and Amen.

You are loved, you are worthy, and you are not walking this journey alone. For He promises to never leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6) Stay strong, bold and courageous in Faith of our Savior Jesus.

In His Grace and Mercy,

Your sister in Christ Jesus,

Jeannie Walker

Founder, Forged in Faith Ministries©️