A child sits on the furthest bench in the furthest corner of the playground.

She stares at her swinging feet with slumped shoulders. Trying to make herself as small as possible as she fidgets through an afternoon recess, her self-value shrinks to size of the smallest pebble she flicks from the seat next to her.

Lost in a life of disappointed parents, accusing teachers and teasing classmates, she seems to have no place of honor. She longs for a new home, and a new name that places her in a much grander scene where gets the trophy for being the most treasured by the authority that reigns. The daydreams take her on grand adventures and daring feats instead of pushing peers and lonely nights.

As she passes the white church on her trek to and from school, she pauses to stare at the cross on top, wondering if fleeting prayers would send flights of angels to her rescue. She sends wishes to the wind but doesn’t give much thought once they disperse because she believes that no one is listening. Yet somehow, she feels a tug that there’s something more to that cross that casts a shadow across her face most days.

Our loving Father understands her hopes and dreams.

He hears her wishes and convicts her to turn them to prayers. The Lord doesn’t abandon His children, even when all things seem hopeless. He holds that grand adventure in His hand. The crown to the kingdom is gladly shared with all those that He calls His.

When you are feeling like shrinking into the bench in the corner or blending into the flowered walls of defeat, remember that the Lord’s Word holds truth and promise. His children do not go unnoticed or unloved. We are at a place of honor in His kingdom.

Here are thirteen verses to reflect upon to help see the value that you not only have in the kingdom, but in our Loving Father.