Today’s bible reading
The affirmation and living that flows from that
“You are my beloved child, in whom I am well pleased.” Jesus found his worth in God. He didn’t need the crowds to fawn over him or shape his identity to know his calling and purpose.
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Philippians 2: 3-4
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Ephesians 4: 15-16
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” James 4:10
Thoughts for meditation
Temptations of the heart triad
People who identify as a type in the Heart “Triad” (Types 2, 3, and 4) are preoccupied with image and the perceptions of others; they live with a sense of being inadequate.
Twos need to be needed. In the fear of being unwanted, they go out of their way to please others. This can show up as manipulative, possessive and overly accommodating or demonstrative.
Threes need to feel they have worth. To ensure they are worth something, they strive for productivity, value achievements and success, and avoid failure at all costs. This can show up as competitive, cut throat, superficial, or vindictive.
Fours need to be special. They are motivated by the need to experience their feelings and to be understood, to search the meaning of life, and to avoid being ordinary. This can show up as being depressed, self-conscious, moody or self-absorbed.
Jesus was tempted to throw himself from the top of the temple in a grand display of his divinity. In other words, that he was tempted to show others that He is, without a doubt, the Messiah and that his current approach is not enough, that he must do something grand to manage people’s perception of Him. (Luke 4:9-12)
Jesus living in truth
Having grounded his ministry in truth, he is able to live out the best of the feeling triad, reflecting God’s characteristics of love, nurturing, hope, creativity, and beauty.
For Jesus, this showed up as compassionate touch and a confidence in his plan. He didn’t feel the need to demonstrate his powers to prove anything before the time was riht. He moved with love towards everyone around him.
“A leper came to Him (Jesus), begging on his knees, “If You want to, You can cleanse me.” Deeply moved, Jesus put out His hand, touched him, and said, “I want to. Be clean.” Then and there the leprosy was gone, his skin smooth and healthy.” Mark 1: 40-42
“He (Jesus) was teaching in one of the meeting places on the Sabbath. There was a woman present, so twisted and bent over with arthritis that she couldn’t even look up. She had been afflicted with this for eighteen years. When Jesus saw her, He called her over. “Woman, you’re free!” He laid hands on her and suddenly she was standing straight and tall, giving glory to God.” Luke 13: 10-13
Twos at their best are loving, caring and adaptable. They make wonderful hosts and supportive friends. They are tuned into how others are feeling making them particularly compassionate.
Threes at their best are optimistic, confident and industrious. They make stuff happen, make great leaders, and practically get things done, and get them done well!
Fours at their best are warm, compassionate and introspective. They inspire others around them with their unique creativity and expressions.
Suggestions for action
- In what ways do you find yourself seeking other people’s approval?
- Do you believe that God is pleased with you? What might be holding you back from accepting that unconditional love?
- How would it feel to ground your self-worth in God’s view of yourself, instead of your own or others?