A Treasure beyond measure

My husband loves the television program Antique Roadshow, where individuals bring in items often passed down by relatives or found in attics or at garage sales. 

During the Roadshow, experts from around the world assess the items and place a value on them based on their expanded knowledge of the item and it's origin.

It's always fascinating to see someone who brings something that others have told them is worthless or a piece of junk, only to find that it's value is actually beyond measure.  I've seen laughter and tears from guests who are overwhelmed with emotion at the value of their hidden treasure.

---

Every time I watch the show I am reminded of just how the rare treasures shown on television, mirror the value we each possess.  However, just as on the show, if we aren't careful, the opinion of others can cause us to easily overlook our value and worth and mistake it for trash instead of treasures.

Instead, we must shift our way of thinking and begin to see ourselves as the rare and priceless treasures we truly are.  God, the master craftsman, custom created us and knitted us together in our mother's womb.  He set us apart and provided each of us with individual gifts, talents and abilities. In His wisdom He placed us on earth for such a time as this for a particular purpose.

If you have found yourself on an emotional roller coaster seeking the approval and applause of others, I invite you to stop, get off the ride and find peace and rest in what God says about you. Your value has already been appraised and the ultimate price has been paid.  Now silence all the other voices around you and walk in the confidence of knowing WHO and WHOSE you are.

---

Priceless Prayer

Lord, please forgive me for placing so much value and worth in what others think or say about me instead of focusing on what You have already said about me.  Please help me silence the voices of others and turn my ear
toward You.  Please strengthen me in the areas that I am weak, and help me renew my mind and my way of thinking about myself.  I thank You for loving me just the way I am and for all the gifts, talents and abilities You have entrusted to me.  In Jesus name, Amen.

---