But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Matthew 6:33
I was raised in a Christian home and was active in my church. After I was married and started a family, my “good church people” lifestyle continued. I tried hard to have my family members conform to expected levels of Christian performance. I thought this was the key to pleasing God and being accepted by Him.
The performance mindset seeped into all areas of my life. I equated achievement at work, in church, or at home with my identity and value. Basically, my accomplishments accounted for whether I was a success or failure. So without a job, who was I? What was I?
In Luke 4:18, Jesus announced that He had come to set the captives free. Free from what? Free from slavery of performance, of having to measure up, from the burden of trying to be accepted and validated by works. It is Jesus’ performance that truly counts, not mine. Only He was fully accepted by His Father. The gospel is the cure when any of us thinks that our achievements are everything. It’s not about us; it’s all about Him, His kingdom and His righteousness.



Scripture Focus

Matthew 6:19-34

Insight

Performance-ism robs you of your freedom. Enjoy freedom in Christ instead!

Bible In A Year

  • Ezekiel 5-6
  • Psalm 133
  • Galatians 3-4

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