OVERCOMING DEPRESSION AND PAIN Devotion: God Chose You **Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-10 (NIV)** "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy." In a world filled with uncertainty and self-doubt, the truth that *God has chosen you* should bring immense comfort and encouragement. The Bible assures us that we are not mere accidents or afterthoughts; we are chosen with purpose and intentionality. God sees value in each of us and calls us His special possession. There are over 8 billion people around the world, but God hears you when you call unto Him, He has chosen you for a special purpose in the place you're, right now and right there. Understanding that you are part of a "royal priesthood" instills a sense of identity and belonging. You are not only chosen; you are also a representative of God's glory. This identity comes with the responsibility to live in a way that honors Him and reflects His light to others, especially to those who still dwell in darkness. You're the light of God's great glory, shine your light in Christ Jesus and bring people to your brightness. "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you." John 15:16 Don't allow hard times and challenges plant doubts in your mind and heart about your relevance and place in the kingdom of God. You're not forsaken, you're chosen and loved. Reflect on what it means to you personally that God chose you. Consider the areas of your life where you may feel inadequate or overlooked. How can you embrace your identity as a chosen person in those situations? Spend some time in prayer, thanking God for His mercy and grace in your life. Ask Him to help you live in a way that declares His praises. Remember, you are part of a larger family of believers—a community that God has brought together for His glory. Declare the change you want to see, don't succumb to the situation at hand. Hard times for Christians are avenues for your faith to grow. **Prayer:** Dear Lord, thank You for choosing me and for the incredible identity You have given me as Your child. Help me to live fully in this truth and to share Your light with those around me. May my life be a reflection of Your love and mercy. I overcome every challenges and setbacks in Jesus' Name Amen. Kindly follow us: Follow the Overcoming Depression And Pain channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaycnaECnA80XKeArv3z