🩶 The entire Old Testament is one continual, complicated dance of sanctification between God and his people. Over and over, he reminds them that they are set apart as his treasured possession. Over and over, he reminds them to obey. Over and over they fall short. 

“Consecrate yourselves and be holy, for I am the Lord your God. Keep my statutes and do them; I am the Lord who sets you apart…you are to be holy to me because I, the Lord, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be mine.” (Leviticus 20:7-8, 26)

The only way to redeem themselves was to adhere to an extensive system of sacrifice and ritual. There was the annual Day of Atonement, when mass rituals served as a symbolic purification of the community from the contamination of sin. Then, there were ongoing personal sacrifices and rituals for sins throughout the year. Just reading about all the requirements is overwhelming because it reveals how utterly impossible it is for any human to achieve holiness on their own.  

And then came Jesus; the beautiful Savior who made sinners holy once and for all time. Because of him, we are sanctified in God’s eyes. Because of the Holy Spirit at work in us, we continue to be sanctified, becoming more like Jesus as we grow in wisdom and love. And because we are sanctified, we’re set apart for a good and powerful purpose. (Hebrews 10:10, 1 Corinthians 1:30)

It’s not a purpose defined by Facebook, TikTok, or the family Christmas card. In fact, it’s not defined by human approval of any kind. Let’s face it, being a parent is an exercise in humility. We love our kids every day and at every age, but they provide plenty of opportunities for us to question the job we’re doing. Even the most obedient children and most Hallmark-like families become objects of judgment, let alone kids and families who are shattered by sin and torn apart by strained relationships. 

Every family has heartache, but when we insist on measuring our value by the judgments of others, it can destroy us. We are valued beyond measure, regardless of our circumstances, because we are sanctified by God. We have a good purpose because we are deeply loved and radically forgiven. 

So, here’s the question: Are the opinions (or the perceived opinions) of others causing stress and anxiety? If so, it’s time to stop striving for perfection and start celebrating your value in Christ. It’s time to embrace the beautiful truth that you are set apart by God for a good purpose. And it’s time to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2) 

Making it Personal

  • How does my life reflect gratitude for the saving grace of Jesus?
  • What things cause me to feel judged by others? What will I do to remind myself that my value is in Christ alone?
  • In what ways am I continuing to be sanctified, becoming more like Jesus as I grow in wisdom and love?
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