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It's difficult to believe that our achievements don't increase or decrease our value. We each are responsible for contributing to the world, but our achievements do not determine how much God loves us. His most important message is that Jesus saves. He gave everything to invite us, at our worst, to eternal life with Him. All the wisdom in the Bible points back to that one truth. How can we doubt our worth when we know the price Jesus paid for our freedom?
“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." - Matthew 10:29-31
Maybe you're a working professional, a student, a spouse, a parent, a world traveler, or an artist. No matter who you are, at least one role defines how you view yourself. So when you fail, you are likely to question your worth. Whatever stage you're at, God has words for you.
Life is about learning as you go. Whether you know it or not, you have influence. It's easy to look around and compare your life to others, but that will only distract you from God's unique path for you. You might think you need to figure it all out before a certain age, but the truth is, you will keep hitting crossroads for the rest of your life. No one has a perfect map drawn out. When you have questions, God has answers. Those answers come from praying and trusting, searching the Bible, and reaching out to reliable support systems. Adulting is confusing, but it comes with new opportunities to leave your mark on the world. Never think you are too young to make an impact, and don't forget to cherish the season you're in now. Your purpose doesn't rely on your relationship status, background, or anything else. God has big plans for your future, yet He also holds immense power in every moment of your present.
"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." - 1 Timothy 4:12
It's often difficult to see the difference between your career and calling. Whether you're doing something you're passionate about or trying to build a stable life for yourself and your family, it can feel like your work defines your purpose. Don't get me wrong; it is great to pursue accomplishments you care about. Having grit in your career can motivate you throughout your life. However, your success isn't who you are. If you lost your job and had no prospects, you would be no less valuable in the eyes of your Creator. Your mission on this earth is not your dream job; it's to love God and love people. Your job is part of how you do that, and God will provide peace for your career decisions. You are so much more than any position you reach or picture for yourself. You are a priceless treasure, and Jesus gave you a gift no one can ever earn.
“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” - 1 Peter 1:18-19
Committed relationships require a lot of accountability. There's pressure to prove yourself when you hit rough patches, and it can feel like your self-worth relies on the condition of your relationship. If you're married or headed in that direction, you need to hear this: God made you an individual, and He has a profound design for your marriage. That design illustrates God's love for you. As you move forward with your spouse, show them selfless love, but don’t forget that God wants you to receive respect and care as well.
"So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground." - Genesis 1:27-28
Raising children reflects God's love in a special way. If you're a parent, I'm guessing you'd describe it as a challenge and a blessing. You put your children's needs before your own, but you should also know how much your life matters to God. You are His child, and He cares about you more than you can imagine. God holds the plans for you and your children's future. When you're overwhelmed, remember you are enough because the maker of the stars says you are! You aren't supposed to do it on your own. Your Father knows your thoughts and feelings, and He's there for you to rest in Him.
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” - John 1:12
The words I have for you apply to everyone: Whatever your life experience, you are where you are for a reason. God has a purpose for what you've done, what you're doing, and what is still to come. Your story matters. Chapters end, and Jesus offers a new beginning. God's power doesn't depend on what's happening in your daily life; He's producing fruit from every step you take. You will always have growing to do, and you can disciple others through the lessons you learn. Whether you're a teenager, a grandparent, or somewhere in between, you have a perfect Father who has loved the real you since long before He molded who you are today.
"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." - Psalms 139:13-14
Written Content Coordinator at Sun Valley Community Church. An avid writer since the age of 5, who loves to explore new ideas and places. Inspired by Jesus, books, and travel.