What is My Worth According to God?
In the grand symphony of creation, from the majestic landscapes to the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, we witness the incredible beauty of God's handiwork. As we marvel at these wonders, it is easy to exclaim, "Wow, God is amazing!"
In the grand symphony of creation, from the majestic landscapes to the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, we witness the incredible beauty of God's handiwork. As we marvel at these wonders, it is easy to say, "Wow, God is amazing!" Yet, when we turn our gaze inward, we often struggle to see the same beauty within ourselves. We can be quick to criticize and devalue ourselves, thinking that somehow, we are inferior to the rest of God's creation. But in reality, we are fearfully and wonderfully made by the very same Creator who fashioned the mountains and the stars.
Embracing God's Artistry
Just as a skilled potter breathes life into a formless lump of clay, God has crafted each one of us with intentional care and purpose. The fingerprints of the Divine Artist are etched in every fiber of our being, unveiling a masterpiece that reflects His image and love.
Instead of focusing on worldly comparisons and standards, we must look to the mirror of God's Word, where we find the undeniable truth of our worth. Psalm 139:14 declares, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." In His eyes, we are fearfully and wonderfully made – a masterpiece in the making.
In a world that places great emphasis on external appearance and worldly achievements, it's easy to fall into the trap of seeking validation from others. Social media, in particular, has become a platform for seeking affirmation and approval through likes, comments. and shares. However, this pursuit of external validation can leave us feeling empty and uncertain of our true worth.
External validation refers to seeking approval, affirmation, and acceptance from sources outside of God. It is when we rely on others' opinions, praise, or recognition to feel valued and validated. This form of validation is often tied to external factors such as appearance, achievements, or social status.
When we seek external validation, we place our worth in the hands of others. We become dependent on their approval and praise to feel good about ourselves. This can lead to a constant quest for validation, always seeking affirmation from others, and feeling deflated when it is not received.
Seeking external validation makes us vulnerable to comparison. We may compare ourselves to others who appear more successful, beautiful, or accomplished, leading to feelings of inadequacy or envy. This comparison trap can erode our self-esteem and diminish our sense of self-worth. It is also often fleeting and fickle. It is based on the ever-changing opinions and perceptions of others. The validation we receive today may fade tomorrow, leaving us feeling uncertain and insecure about our true value.
Relying on external validation sets us up for disappointment.
Not everyone will appreciate or recognize our worth, and seeking validation from unreliable sources can lead to a rollercoaster of emotions that will overtake and control our lives.