My parents used to have this dog when they lived in Claremore. His name was Worthless. This poor dog was as loyal as a stray dog could be and loved that my mom was faithful about serving table scraps. But the truth is, this dog was worthless. It laid around or chased random animals or varmints found on the ranch but never contributed to the daily chores or work needing to be done around the house. Granted, most dogs aren't generally good for much other than petting but on a ranch, if you eat you should work!!
My husband loved this dog. I am sure it's because it was such an unloveable creature. Trent has a thing for the underdog. Pun intended.
The last couple days I've been mentally wrestling with the idea of self worth. How do we define our self worth? For many of us, our self worth is found in our successes. We consider ourself valuable based on what we have achieved or are capable of doing. We find affirmation in the things we are most proud. Conversely, we struggle with inferiority and lack of self esteem based on how we compare ourselves to others around us. We cannot help it. It's human nature.
My dad used to say (and still does) that the value of something has little to do with the price that is on it. The real value (or worth) is based on what someone is willing to pay. For ex ample, some of you know that I love to go thrifting. Recently, I stumbled on a designer skirt (in my size!!!) that would have retailed for something around $800 or more. However, I paid $8 for it--used. The value or worth of this designer skirt was $800 for someone else--but only $8 to me!! Same skirt--different value.
As humans, we struggle with our own self worth. I am worth more if I make more money, drive a nicer car or wear designer clothes. I am worth more if I have a prestigious job or title. I am worth more if I am thin, talented or smart. I am worth more if my children are well behaved, if I am debt free or have great hair.
The truth is NONE of these things can determine our value. Our worth is based on what someone would pay (or invest) in us. My neighbor may not think I have much value or worth but there is one person who paid a great deal for me. When Jesus died on the cross, He paid the greatest price for me. He gave everything He had in order that I might be saved. He thought I was totally worthy. And the most beautiful thing about this is that I am not the only one He died on the cross for!! He died and rose again for YOU too!!
So, the next time you look in the mirror and see something you don't like and feel like a loser and worthless, just remind yourself that YOU do not determine your value! Jesus Christ determined your value long ago and you are SO worth it!!!
Ephesians 2:8-10
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
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