We derive status and value from outside of ourselves... so let it be from the God who truly values you.
Contrary to modern thinking, human beings were designed to derive their value from outside of themselves. We can only think highly of ourselves when others, whose opinion we value, think highly of us.
Before sin entered the world, men and women built each other up and above all else, we derived our status as human beings loved and valued by God, made in His image. Since our rebellion against God, and the subsequent breakdown in relationships with others, we still need affirmation from others, but this affirmation is flimsy, unreliable, selfish and never enough.
Money is one way we seek to gain acknowledgement from others and therefore the self-esteem we crave. Society gives people status according to their financial 'worth'.
In the book of James 1:9-11, God turns this thinking up side down.
1. God exalts the humble
2. God humiliates those who derive status from riches
Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will exalt you. James 4:10
