Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #8 — By God’s Standard

Picture: Counsel #8 — By God’s Standard CI 47.1

The message we hear every day from social media, pop culture, and even close friends is often some version of: “You’re perfect just the way you are.” While that can feel empowering, it’s ultimately incomplete. The gospel doesn’t flatter us with half-truths but liberates us with the whole truth — being perfect by the world’s standard is to be imperfect by God’s. CI 47.2

Romans 3:10-12 tells us plainly, “There is none righteous, no, not one.” At first, that may feel like a blow to your self-worth, but if you sit with it, you’ll realize it’s the key that unlocks the power of grace. You don’t have to fake it with God. The gospel starts with the reality of our brokenness due to sin and ends with the beauty of our redemption. God sees every part of you: the sin you hide, the wounds you carry, and the fears you can’t name; yet, He still chooses you every day, just as you are. The world celebrates independence, but God calls us into dependence on Him. So rather than trying to boost your self-esteem by declaring yourself “good enough,” you can rest in something better: Jesus is enough.^[45] CI 47.3

“All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord.” Proverbs 16:2 NIV CI 47.4

“Spiritual character is that which will be recognized by Christ.” Ellen White in God’s Amazing Grace, p. 52 CI 47.5

Reflect: In what ways do you try meeting the world’s version of perfection? CI 47.6