No Rivals

If pressed, some of us may struggle to list our best qualities. We live in a society that focuses on outward appearance and glorifies a specific version of perfection. We know in theory that we are good enough, but we are surrounded by unachievable standards. We are pushed to have perfect houses, balanced political opinions, flawless parenting techniques, and an ideal body image. It can be difficult to maintain a positive self-image when we are bombarded with messages that say we just don’t measure up.

Friend, you are made in God’s image. He created you with care and intention. He fashioned you after Himself, and His opinion is the only one that matters. His idea of perfection or success is different from the world’s. His standards are not impossible or burdensome. He doesn’t ask you to do anything that He will not equip you for. He looks at you with mercy, and He graciously provides you with everything you need to live a life that honors Him.

There is nothing in creation that is equal to you in God’s eyes. You are His workmanship and His greatest masterpiece. Everything else will fade away, but you have been made to live with Him for eternity. He places more value on you than on anything else. As a result, you do not have to compete for His affection. From God’s perspective, nothing in all of creation compares to His children.

When you are convinced of God’s opinion of you, you will approach Him with confidence and ease. You won’t assume that He is angry, frustrated, or disappointed with you. You will eagerly listen for His voice because you look forward to the mercy, compassion, and love that is found in His presence. When you are convinced of God’s opinion of you, you won’t base your value on your performance, productivity, or level of perfection. You’ll base your value on what He says, and you will find freedom and contentment that the world cannot offer.