Good morning:
Ever wish you were a better you? If so, you’re not alone. Self-improvement is hugely popular. Who wouldn’t want to be a better version of themselves? Life coaches, personal trainers, and online programs promise to help you reach new goals. Working on improving certain aspects of our lives can be very beneficial. Exercise and diet may promote weight loss and better overall health. Time management skills can make days less hectic and free up hours for family time.
However, there is one thing which self-improvement can’t accomplish. It can’t increase one’s worth. To think that bettering certain areas of life makes me a better person will lead to self-centered pride if successful or to despair if one falls short.
The reality is that our true value has nothing to do with anything we might accomplish. “There is no difference…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). No matter how hard we might try to make ourselves holy before God or at least better, we will fail. “There is no one righteous, not even one” (Rom. 3:10).
Yet we are of incredible, priceless worth, not because of who we are or what we do, but because of who God is and what he has done for us. “God is love” (1 Jn. 4:8). He loves you unconditionally. His love was determined to do whatever it would take to make you his child. “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him…He loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 Jn. 4:9-10).
By faith everything Jesus accomplished by his life and death is yours. His obedience is credited to you. His payment for sin on the cross has reconciled you to God. Clothed in Christ’s robe of righteousness, you couldn’t be better in God’s eyes.
So whether the plans for building muscle, taking a hike, watching the diet, improving the work/home balance, or being more understanding and patient succeed or fall apart, let’s remember our true worth in Christ and gladly live for him.
Yours in his service,
Pastor
Our service tomorrow begins at 9 a.m.
A VBS organizational meeting for teachers and helpers will be held after the service.
Also, help is appreciated to move items off the hard floors before they are cleaned and waxed on Monday.
