Highly Valued

Rex Stump

READY

“For we are God’s masterpiece . . .” — Ephesians 2:10a

SET

Recently, I used a few old basketball cards as an object lesson to focus on worth and value. Let’s say a pack of 10 ball cards sells for $3.00. That would mean each card is worth $.30. When you open the pack of cards, you may become the owner of a star athlete’s rookie card or just a common card. Although the cards are made from the same material and are similar in shape and size, each card has a different value.

In February 2019, a Michael Jordan card sold for $350,100 (1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems). Meanwhile, a similar card of a common star sold for just a couple of dollars. How can this be? Who determines the worth and value of these things? Here is my concluding thought: The image on the card determines the value of the card.

In the same way, we have tremendous value because we bear the image of God! Mankind has been created in the image of God. We bear His image. Therefore, God has set the value on mankind as priceless! We are called masterpieces by Paul (Ephesians 2:10). God looks at us and highly values us!

Unfortunately, mankind is good at disrespecting one another, treating each other with little value. That kind of treatment goes directly against God’s heart. Sometimes we even treat ourselves with little value. When you feel worthless, don’t believe the lie that you are worthless. Errors don’t define you; they refine you. The truth is that you have value, regardless of your feelings and failures.

You have value, not determined by others, but by God, who calls you a masterpiece. You have value, so be kind to yourself. Your family, your teammates, your friends also have value—so treat each other with value. Be kind to one another!

GO  

• Do you consider yourself valuable? Why or why not?  
• Do you treat your teammates, coach, or family with value?

WORKOUT

James 3:9; Ephesians 4:32; Ephesians 5:1

OVERTIME

"Heavenly Father, thank You for creating me in Your image with incredible value. I love You. Amen."