Yes, Lord, you knew me in my fallen state, and even then, you chose me for yourself. When I was loathsome and despised, you received me as your child and satisfied my deepest needs. Blessed forever be your name for this free, rich, abounding mercy. Since then, my inner experience has often been like a wilderness. Yet you still claimed me as your beloved and poured streams of love and grace into my life to bring joy and fruitfulness.

Even when my circumstances were at their worst and I wandered in a dry land, your sweet presence comforted me. Others may not have cared when I faced scorn, but you've known my soul in adversity, for no trial dims the brightness of your love. Gracious Lord, I praise you for your faithfulness in difficult times, and I am sorry for ever forgetting you and pridefully taking credit for what is all due to your gentleness and love. Have mercy on me in this!

My heart, if Jesus acknowledged you in your low state, be sure to own him and his cause now in your prosperity. Don't be lifted up by worldly success and be ashamed of the truth or the poor church you belong to. Follow Jesus into the wilderness and bear the cross with him when persecution heats up. He owned you, my heart, in poverty and shame—never be so unfaithful as to be ashamed of him.

Let there be more shame at the thought of being ashamed of my best Beloved! Jesus, my soul clings to you. 'I'll turn to you in days of light, as well as nights of care. You brightest among all that's bright! You fairest of the fair!'