We live in a superficial world. A world that looks at things only on the surface, filled with people that believe things as real or true without looking more closely. Our society (and a lot of social media) provokes us to constantly check our self-worth based on ‘likes’ and acceptance by others. If we don’t fit the identity of a group, we must be doing something wrong.
We must recognize we live in a fallen world. One where we must guard ourselves to not look at the outward appearance of ourselves (or others), but rather the inward spirit expressed outwardly. We need to check ourselves against God’s guidelines, not those of our society and peers. As Jesus said in Mathew 23:26:
“Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also.”
Working from the inside out allows us to move beyond the superficial to the genuine grace of God and His planned purpose for us. Do not let others define your appearance, purpose, or self-worth. Work on the details within your own heart, the very place others cannot see or judge you. Know your confidence comes from the grace of God, not from the superficial judgement of this world. God bless you!