For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life. — John 3:16, Amplified Bible

Not long ago I lunched with a fellow seeking my advise with regard to his impending real estate career. He was very transparent during our conversation, disclosing to me that he had been out of work for about a year and a half. He also related to me how this time of unemployment had burdened him greatly, not with regard to his financial situation but with regard to his self-esteem. As a result of not working for so long, he didn’t feel as if he were contributing to society. Therefore, he didn’t feel like he was worth very much to society.

I completely understand where he was coming from, for there have been times in my life where I felt the same way. To encourage him, I shared with him a truth that helped me to deal with similar feelings in the past, and it is this: we are worth everything to God.

Christ died on the cross for you (and for me), and there is no greater indication of your worth than the fact that Christ thought enough of you to die on the cross for you! Was Christ’s willingness to lay down His life for you tied to your performance on this Earth? No! If salvation were tied to performance, none of us would qualify for Heaven (For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23)! Rather, He loved you in spite of your deeds, not because of them, and gave up everything – the comforts of Heaven, His dignity, and His life – for you and for me.

Am I advocating idleness? Of course not. I am, however, advocating that we lay down the pride that makes us think that what we do establishes our worth. Our actions may give us a boost in the eyes of men, but that is no reward, for the fear of man bringeth a snare (Proverbs 29:25). What gives us worth is the loving God who gave up everything that we might be with Him forever.

The next time you feel down because of your situation, remember that Christ thought enough of you to die for you, and your cares will melt away.

1 Peter 5:6-7, Amplified Bible (AMP)

6 Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you,

7 Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.