January 28, 2023
Daily Devotion:
"Self Improvement"
Philippians 1:6
God began doing good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ Comes again.
What's wrong with accepting myself as I am? Why do we put so much emphasis on being better and "the best" in our society? Is that any way to live? No question, we can love ourselves for who we are because God does. And no, we don't have to join a “rat race” of competing with others to have the nicest house and most possessions. We need not push our kids into every activity to ensure that they are the smartest and most athletic. No, we cannot prove to God that we are worthy of salvation. Yes, we can relax and savor what we have and enjoy who we are. But we must also be mindful that “from everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded” (Luke 12:48).
In speaking of our salvation, Paul says: “You did not save yourself; it was a gift from God. It was not the result of your own efforts, so you cannot brag about it. God has made us what we are. In Christ Jesus, God made us do good works, which God Planned in advance for us to live our lives doing" (Ephesians 2:8-10). Notice that God has prepared works for each of us to accomplish. He has given each of us talents and gifts that we are to expand and invest into others: Paul compares the church to a body, each part having a different function that ultimately serves the whole (See Romans 12:5-8).
Consider a couple of challenges and reminders in the area of self-improvement- We don't tend to stay in the same spot-we either move forward or backward. Big dreams and tasks begin with small steps-what can you do today? We aren't supposed to be someone else-growth with the dreams and aspirations, God has placed in your own heart.
Work is part of the cycle of life--which also includes rest, play, and worship. Wanting to grow is not selfish-it is the way God created us. We grow to make ourselves better-and to better serve God. Discipline is a tremendous source of freedom-from doubt, fear, and lethargy.
