Some people do not recognize value in themselves and feel unqualified to help anyone. But they are wrong and dig themselves a deeper hole.
Our current value is easy to measure. Consider one’s education, experience, resources and work ethic. Most people hire and invite others to share life with them based on this present value.
Potential value is your willingness to enhance your current value, to improve your education, to accumulate more resources, to seek more relevant experience and to go beyond the norms in doing the right things.
For those who struggle with their current value, potential value is often ignored and discounted. They conclude that their past will determine their future. This is probably the biggest mistake people can make when their future is always uncertain.
Imagine an 80-year old man who lived in exile for murdering another man, had no self-esteem and stuttered or stammered when he spoke. This man did not find much current value in himself until he realized his potential value. Did you know that this 80-year old man was Moses, one of the greatest Hebrew heroes known to mankind?
Most people are proud of their family tree and gain confidence knowing their ancestors’ history. But what if your family doesn’t have the same credentials? What if your family members are regarded as ‘lesser valued’ people? Fear not.
Imagine being a direct descendant of a deceiver who dressed up as prostitute to become pregnant. Imagine knowing your genealogy connects you to an actual prostitute. Imagine being a product of an adulterous relationship. I know one person who has this family history. His name is Jesus Christ. His ancestors include Tamar, Rahab the Harlot, and Bathsheba. Read their stories and realize that God is not ashamed of imperfect people – He has great plans for each one of us, especially when we feel we can’t sink any lower.
So yes, you are worthy. Your dark past can discourage you but it will not own you if you place your hope in transformation. In the end, my daily inspiration stems from who I am becoming rather than who I was before.