How can we encourage others to find their worth in God, not worldly gains? Setting the Stage: Jeremiah 9:23–24 “Thus says the LORD: ‘Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the rich man in his riches. But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth—for in these I delight,’ declares the LORD.” Why Worldly Gains Cannot Anchor Our Worth • Wisdom, power, and wealth shift with seasons, markets, and health • All three can vanish overnight (Proverbs 23:4-5) • They tempt the heart toward pride, independence, and comparison (1 John 2:16) • God warns that trusting them invites disappointment and judgment (Psalm 52:7) Where True Worth Is Found • Rooted in knowing and being known by the Creator (Isaiah 43:1) • Confirmed by Christ’s purchase at the cross (1 Peter 1:18-19) • Sealed by the Spirit who bears witness we are children of God (Romans 8:15-16) • Unchanging, because God’s character never changes (Hebrews 13:8) Practical Ways to Encourage Others • Celebrate faith milestones, not material milestones – Highlight answered prayers, acts of obedience, growth in grace • Speak identity-forming words – “You are beloved in Christ,” rather than “You’re so successful” • Model contentment – Joyfully live within means and give generously (1 Timothy 6:6-8) • Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness when achievements failed to satisfy • Point friends to Scripture before celebrating accomplishments – Send a verse with every congratulatory note • Serve together in ministries that have no earthly spotlight – Nursing-home visits, prayer teams, behind-the-scenes setup • Redirect compliments – “Praise God for enabling me,” shifting glory upward (Psalm 115:1) • Create gratitude rhythms – End gatherings with each person naming one attribute of God they treasure Supporting Scriptures That Reinforce the Message • Matthew 6:19-21 — Treasures in heaven endure, earthly ones decay • Philippians 3:7-8 — Paul counts former gains as loss compared to knowing Christ • Psalm 62:10 — If riches increase, set not the heart on them • James 1:9-11 — Both lowly and rich fade like wildflowers; only God’s approval lasts • Colossians 3:1-3 — Life is now hidden with Christ in God, lifting eyes above Key Takeaways to Live and Share • Worth is measured by relationship with God, not résumé or bank account • Worldly achievements make poor anchors; God’s steadfast love secures the soul • Consistent, Scripture-saturated encouragement helps others shift their boast from self to the Savior • When a community echoes Jeremiah 9:23-24, boasting becomes worship, and identity rests on the unshakeable character of the Lord |
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