You might’ve noticed it’s pretty easy to get swept up in the holiday shopping frenzy—especially with things like Black Friday and Cyber Monday pulling us in. A recent Lifeway Research study found that 43% of Americans are motivated by the idea of owning more, and almost 40% said shopping makes them feel “worthwhile.” It’s a telling sign of how much we’ve come to equate what we own with who we are.
But as followers of Christ, we know that our worth doesn’t come from what we buy or how much we have. It comes from God. Let’s take a closer look at why Scripture reminds us that our true identity and value are found in Him, not in the things of this world.
But as followers of Christ, we know that our worth doesn’t come from what we buy or how much we have. It comes from God. Let’s take a closer look at why Scripture reminds us that our true identity and value are found in Him, not in the things of this world.
Our Worth Is Defined by God, Not Material Things
This study shows something that’s probably not surprising: a lot of people are trying to find their self-worth in what they own. But the Bible tells a different story. Genesis 1:26-27 says we’re made in God’s image, giving us inherent value and a unique connection to the One who is eternal. That’s where our worth comes from—not from the latest gadgets or fashion trends.
Scott McConnell, the executive director of Lifeway Research said, “Pursuing more, better, and newer is enjoyable for many, but it is also common for people to eventually hop off the consumption cycle…” because it’s temporary. Sooner or later, it leaves us feeling empty. Only our relationship with God gives us lasting value because it’s eternal.
Scott McConnell, the executive director of Lifeway Research said, “Pursuing more, better, and newer is enjoyable for many, but it is also common for people to eventually hop off the consumption cycle…” because it’s temporary. Sooner or later, it leaves us feeling empty. Only our relationship with God gives us lasting value because it’s eternal.
True Worth Comes from Being Loved by God
We’ve all seen how easy it is to measure our worth by what we have or what we can do. But God flips that idea on its head. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Think about that for a second—God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to die for us while we were still a mess! That means our worth isn’t tied to our performance, our bank accounts, or our shopping carts. It’s rooted in God’s love, plain and simple.
Think about that for a second—God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to die for us while we were still a mess! That means our worth isn’t tied to our performance, our bank accounts, or our shopping carts. It’s rooted in God’s love, plain and simple.
Material Things Are Temporary, But God’s Value for Us Is Eternal
Let’s face it: the newest phone, the nicest car, or even the coolest pair of shoes won’t last. 2 Peter 3:11 says it bluntly: “Since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness?” This truth underscores the temporary nature of earthly possessions and the eternal value found in living for God.
That’s a wake-up call. Why do we spend so much time chasing after stuff? Instead, Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:19-21 to store up treasures in heaven. What does that look like? It means focusing on things that matter—our relationship with God and the way we love and serve others.
That’s a wake-up call. Why do we spend so much time chasing after stuff? Instead, Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:19-21 to store up treasures in heaven. What does that look like? It means focusing on things that matter—our relationship with God and the way we love and serve others.
Our Worth Is Rooted in Christ, Not in What We Possess
When Paul wrote Galatians 2:20, he wasn’t mincing words: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” That’s huge! Our identity isn’t tied to our stuff. It’s tied to Jesus.
The study found that 43% of people report finding worth in shopping, but we know the truth: our value doesn’t come from what we own. It’s found in who Christ is and what He’s done for us.
The study found that 43% of people report finding worth in shopping, but we know the truth: our value doesn’t come from what we own. It’s found in who Christ is and what He’s done for us.
God Provides for Our Needs, and We Can Find Contentment in Him
We live in a world that constantly tells us we don’t have enough. The study found “44% of Americans say they have enough money. Most (54%) disagree, and [the rest] aren’t sure”. But Paul gives us a better perspective in Philippians 4:11-13: “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.”
Contentment doesn’t come from having more; it comes from trusting that God will provide what we need. And the best part? He always does.
Contentment doesn’t come from having more; it comes from trusting that God will provide what we need. And the best part? He always does.
Our Worth Is Secure in Christ, Not in the Approval of Others
One of the biggest traps in consumerism is comparison. We see what others have and feel like we need it too. The study even notes that a lot of people chase after what their friends have. But 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us: “You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.”
Isn’t that amazing? God’s already chosen us. We don’t need to prove our worth to anyone by what we own because we already belong to Him.
Isn’t that amazing? God’s already chosen us. We don’t need to prove our worth to anyone by what we own because we already belong to Him.
Final Thoughts - Finding Lasting Worth in Christ.
It’s so easy to get caught up in the holiday shopping hype, isn’t it? But here’s the good news: our worth isn’t found in the things we buy. It’s found in God’s love and the identity He’s given us in Christ.
Colossians 3:2-3 says, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” So this shopping season, let’s remember where our real value comes from. And let’s challenge ourselves to focus on the eternal things that truly matter.
Colossians 3:2-3 says, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” So this shopping season, let’s remember where our real value comes from. And let’s challenge ourselves to focus on the eternal things that truly matter.
Posted in Church Life & Community