by Kala Loptien

Who are you?

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.”
1 John 3: 1, ESV

There’s a diagnosis in the counseling world called “approval addiction.” To put it plainly, it’s a deep-rooted need to be liked and to please people. It starts early– chosen for a team (or not); selected for the lead role (or not), winning an award (or not). The pressures continue into our adult life — receiving the job offer (or not), achieving excellence in the workplace (or not), showcasing an impressive life via social media (or not); pretending to have the perfect family/relationships (or not).

This isn’t at all to say that working hard or wanting to be well liked is a terrible thing. But it can be a slippery slope. Suddenly we are deeply affected by what others think; how we are portrayed and worldly outcomes of it all. Then it happens. This overwhelming need becomes the ultimate idol. Now, our identity and value are threatened. Our circumstances and outcomes determine our worth. The world seems to condition us accordingly. I probably don’t have to tell you who has a heyday with all of this. The enemy prowls around, looking for ways to remind us we aren’t good enough–we’ve fallen short. On the one hand, he’s right. “… for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” But that’s not the only thing God wants us to hear…

We are His children. Our Father’s love is deep and unconditional. The only context we have for this kind of love is in the Word. His Word. He knew us before we even came to be. He has plans for us, ultimately drawing us closer to Him. He sent his Son to die for us. When God sees us, He sees Christ’s righteousness. It was nothing we earned. We have the ultimate approval from the One who created and called us by name. When this beautiful truth permeates our heart, mind and soul, there’s freedom. Our identity is sealed. He’s blessed us with this life, our gifts and who we share them with. When we walk in step with the Lord and live accordingly, we need not worry about seeking the approval of the world. We are worthy because God says so.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, CO