“For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6-8 (NASB)
Since I started babysitting as a teen almost 20 years ago, I’ve been hooked. Kids. I love them. Whether it’s through nannying, counselling, teaching, volunteering, or raising my own children, I’ve had the opportunity to work with children from all over the world. And you know, they’re not so different from adults.
Whether they’re in play therapy, dancing a princess waltz, hitting a baseball, jumping rope, or playing a board game, they all want something very simple: attention. "Watch me!" they call out desperately, multiple times a day. The youngest are more obvious, while the older ones glance up from their gadgets every so often, wondering if anyone really notices them.
As adults, we’re no different. We feel good when friends or family send us birthday cards or take us to dinner on special occasions. Or if the boss notices our attention to details or when a neighbor thanks us for our help. It helps us to feel significant and validated when our efforts are noticed. It helps us thrive.
Whether you have a zillion friends on social media who cheer you on daily or whether you have very few interactions or accolades from others, God wants you to remember how very special you are to Him today and every day. He is watching your wonderful efforts to love others and Him. Today’s verse reminds us we are significant enough that Jesus died for us. He wanted us to live life, and to live it abundantly. So let’s start living.
Dear Lord, I am more aware than ever that You alone provide the best proof of my significance. You died for me so that I could live. There is no greater measure of love toward me that I could ever have, and I thank You for that. May I live out of that confidence, and bring glory to You in everything I think, say, and do. Amen.
Take Action
Take this survey on spiritual giftedness and embrace your true significance in Christ by using the talents He has given you. Surround yourself not only with people to minister to, but also people who refresh and recharge you. Spend five minutes today remembering that Jesus died for you, and how that makes you more significant than anything else ever could.