Better Thingsنموونە

It can be easy to try and prove our worth when our value has already been determined by the price Jesus paid on the cross. Both Adam and the woman caught in adultery participated in this illusion. When Adam ate the forbidden fruit, his perfect record was shattered. If his actions determined his value and worth, then he was officially worthless. Overcome by this awareness, he hid from the presence of God.

In John 8, we read about a woman caught in the act of adultery and subsequently thrown at the feet of Jesus by the religious leaders. Can you imagine how worthless she felt at that moment? If her actions determined her value, then Jesus would have nothing to do with her. However, as the events in John 8 unfold, we discover three things that don’t determine our worth:

1. Prominence: From a social standpoint, the religious leaders that threw the woman at Jesus’ feet had clout and influence. However, as they began to walk away, one by one, it became clear that popularity and social status do not determine our worth and value.

2. Perfection: It is easy to feel bad for the woman, but there is no denying that she made a mistake. Not only did she fall, but she was caught red-handed by the most influential people in her community. This did not stop Jesus from pursuing her and equipping her to live a purpose-driven life.

3. Persistence: The religious leaders relentlessly asked Jesus what His thoughts were, and the woman stayed silent on the ground. It’s evident that persistence and repetition held no weight in determining the woman’s value, and the same is true for us. Surrender is what Jesus wants.

Big Idea: Your worth is determined by the price Jesus paid for you.

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one thing from today’s devotional that jumped out to you?

2. Has there been an area of your life where you have searched for worth and value outside of Jesus? How does His finished work on the cross change your perspective?

3. Who is someone that you can encourage with this, and how can you encourage them?