Listen to last week’s sermon Embracing God’s Appraisal of You found in Matthew 10:29-31.

In last week’s sermon, pastor Eric invited us to explore the profound concept of self-worth and how it relates to our relationship with God.

The message began by highlighting the common human tendency to seek self-worth through external validation, recognition, and approval from others. This pursuit often leads to feelings of undervaluation, underestimation, and unappreciation. People sometimes attempt to find their self-worth in their careers, external appearance, or even unhealthy means like substance use.

However, the sermon emphasized the transitory nature of basing self-worth on appearance or career achievements. When these factors change or fade, individuals can experience identity crises and feelings of diminished value.

The central message of the sermon revolved around “Embracing God’s Appraisal of You.” This concept was supported by a passage from the Bible, Matthew 10:29-31 (NIV), which reminds us that God values every individual deeply:

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

The passage is part of Jesus’ commissioning of His disciples, where He encourages them not to fear human judgments but to trust in God’s care. The message is clear: you are worth more than sparrows in the eyes of God.

The sermon outlined six compelling reasons for your inherent value:

1. You are valuable because Jesus declared your worth. Matthew 10:29-31
2. You are valuable because God created you with intention and purpose. Jeremiah 29:11
3. You are valuable because you are made in the image of God. Genesis 1:27
4. You are valuable because Jesus sacrificed His life to redeem you from sin. Romans 5:8
5. You are valuable because the Holy Spirit resides within you, guiding and empowering you. Acts 2:4, John 14:16-17, and 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.
6. You are valuable because God constantly thinks about you and has plans for your life. Jeremiah 29:11 See NKJV or KJV

The sermon emphasized that you are valuable simply because you exist, not based on your achievements or external factors. When individuals fail to recognize their inherent value, they may sell themselves short and make poor life choices in search of validation.

The message ended with a powerful illustration that underscored the importance of being in the right place where you are valued, and a reminder that Jesus shed His blood for you, not for sparrows.

Watch sermon here

Small group discussion questions:

1. Personal Reflection.

How does the concept of finding self-worth through external validation resonate with you? Have you ever felt undervalued or underestimated by others? Share your experiences.

2. Scripture Exploration.

Discuss the Bible passage from Matthew 10:29-31. What stood out to you in this passage, and how does it relate to the idea of God’s appraisal of our worth?

3. Identifying Your Worth.

Of the six reasons for your value mentioned in the sermon, which one resonates with you the most? Why? Can you share a personal experience or testimony related to this reason?

4. Misconceptions About Self-Worth.

The sermon mentioned that many people seek their worth in temporary things like appearance or careers. Can you share examples or experiences where you or someone you know based their self-worth on such things? What were the consequences?

5. Overcoming Low Self-Esteem.

The sermon touched on how low self-esteem can lead people to make poor life choices. Have you ever witnessed this in someone’s life? How can understanding one’s value in God’s eyes help combat low self-esteem?

6. Value in Others.

In the story about being in the right place where you are valued, how can we apply this idea to our interactions with others? Can you share an example of a time when someone valued you in a way that made a significant impact?

7. Practical Application.

How can you actively remind yourself and others of their inherent value based on the sermon’s teachings? Share practical steps or strategies to reinforce this understanding.

8. Prayer and Encouragement.

As a group, take a moment to pray for one another. Pray for God’s guidance in embracing your value and living it out daily. Encourage each other to hold onto the truth of your worth in God’s eyes.

9. Sharing God’s Love.

How can you communicate the message of God’s appraisal of worth to those who may be struggling with low self-esteem or seeking value in the wrong places? Share ideas for sharing this message of hope and worth with others.

10. Response to the Sermon.

What aspects of the sermon had the most impact on you, and how do you plan to apply them in your life this week? Share your personal action steps.