Appreciating

The more you see yourself how God sees you, the more you realize how precious you are.

Contrary to our culture's non-stop messaging that we depreciate with age, God's perspective is vastly different, assuring us of our continuous worth and value.

The older we get, the wiser we become.

We have experienced great love and great pain.

We have won, we have lost.

We have risen to great heights in the pursuit of happiness, only to find that the joy we sought was not in accumulation, money, or title.

We have grown in wisdom as we push past the illusions to find what matters.

We have lived many lives in various versions and seasons of ourselves and, in those variations, have experienced all the surprises, joys, and sorrows that life brings.

As we watch loved ones suffer or pass away, we realize that time is of the essence, and we must live to the fullest while we can.

With every lesson we learn, our wisdom and value appreciate.

We grow closer to God as we wrestle with what is truly important as the depth and fragility of this beautiful life come into focus.

God is increasing your value moment by moment. Everything you have experienced has brought you right here.

All that you have witnessed, learned, and endured can be used to help another and make the world a better place.

Your life has made you such an extraordinary resource, and with every step you take forward with God, you only appreciate in value.

God is so proud of you. Look at all you have accomplished, all you have learned, all you have yet to do!

What value you bring! No one is like you; you are a rare, unique piece of amazingness!

You are wanted and needed in this world, my valuable friend.

I am so glad you are here!

Isaiah 40: 30-31

Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;

but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Psalm 71: 17-18

Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.

Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Philippians 1:6

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.