If you had to set your own value, what would you use as a measure? Perhaps a case of dazzling jewelry would inspire you to say “Ah, yes, see that diamond necklace there? That’s what I am worth.” Maybe you would simply reply “I’m priceless”. These answers indicate a positive view of self but then there are some of us who sell ourselves short. In my case, I treat myself as if I am the chipped, ceramic figurine now marked down to 50% off hoping someone will overlook my flaws and take home to set on his mantel.
Daily, I tell myself “You can’t do it” and therefore fail to try. I am my own worst enemy when it comes to discouragement. Instead of saying “I don’t know how to do this now, but could you show me?” or attempting a task first, I just throw my hands up. Then, I kick myself even more. How will anyone expect much of me if I am continually portraying myself as damaged, discounted goods?
Though my attitude says “I am worthless” I am glad to be reminded of the truth that I was bought at a price. “You were bought at price” (1 Cor. 7:23) means someone who loves me more than anyone on this earth, saw a diamond in the rough. He saw past my scrapes and dents. He paid for me with His own life. By all accounts, as a sinful human, I should not be worth much more than a shattered vase. Instead, Jesus put himself on that discount shelf. He lowered Himself down and endured the taunting. The crowd gathered at Calvary saw Jesus as worthless. They did not believe He was the Son of God. They devalued Him and He willingly stood in that position for me, thus transferring a worth to me that only He could ever offer.
I was bought at a price that no one can match. He gave His life. All his lifeblood ran down his arms and legs, spilled out of his side and beaded on his brow. Jesus suffered an agonizing death. He was the price and I am His. My true worth is found in Him. So, I am not a diamond necklace. I’m not priceless; nor am I a discounted collectible. I am a child of God, “You are not your own; you were bought at a price”. (1 Cor. 6:19-20) Next time you feel defeated, do not cling to self-loathing remember you too were bought at a price. If you have accepted this gift, this should offer some food for thought and perhaps peace. If you have not accepted this gift, think on how much Jesus loved you. True value is found in Him alone and may I strive to continue to be worthy in my living of this eternal gift.
"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
‘Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven…’ ."
~Matthew 10:29-33~
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