Approval of Others + My Performance = My Self-Worth/Image/Identity.

Here’s what this formula produces in us:

1. Fear of failure
2. Fear of rejection
3. Fear of punishment
4. Shame

These 4 things are the byproduct of living our lives performing to gain approval and letting other people’s opinions determine our self-worth. These are 4 lies that govern us when we don’t understand the gospel. These lies negatively shape our self-worth, the way we perceive God and the way we relate to other people. God’s response to these lies are profound theological truths anchored in his character and in the gospel. 

If we can get our heads and hearts around these truths, it would change everything
for us.