“Whoso knoweth himself well, growth more mean [humble] in his own conceit, and delighteth not in the praises of men. Thomas a Kempis

“Nevertheless many, even of the authorities, believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they did not confess it, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved human glory more than the glory that comes from God.” John 12:42-43

Understanding who I am provides a basis for my beliefs and behavior. If I see myself as a single entity – a “Lone Ranger” – I must find within myself validation, or (more often) I desire to receive from others validation of my worth. I must always be at least as good as the next person, but more often I need to be better. When I look in the mirror and realize that I am as flawed as anyone else, I lose my value and I look for ways to hide my failure from those who think highly of me.

If I see myself as a child of God, I find my validation in Him. As I child of God I know that I am loved, not because I am the best, but because I am. He made me. He delights in me. I recognize the areas that God is working in me. I see where I am weak, and allow the power of God to be my strength. I am not dependent upon others to confirm my value, for my worth is based upon my position as a child of God – just as theirs is.

Knowing myself, as Thomas a Kempis reminds us, is a humbling experience. But self-knowledge should lead me to the truth that I am a loved child of God. Knowing that I am a loved child of God removes the fear that I will be slandered and rejected for doing the right thing. I no longer need to strive for the approval of others; I know that I am God’s, and He is pleased with me.

Lord, I am grateful for the reminder that I am Your child, and that You love me. I am humbled when I realize how often I fall short of all that You call me to be; yet You do not reject me. Rather than living for the praise of others, may I be more than satisfied that I am Your child, You love me, and with me You are well-pleased.