The work of our hands matters and flows from who God has created us to be. But while we might be admired for the work we do, our soul still craves to be loved for who we are. We long for others to deem us as worthy of love and belonging beyond our ability to perform for them.
Of course, it feels good when others recognize our good works. It validates our calling and motivates us to keep showing up. Our work is an extension of who we are and denying this robs us of being fully known. At the same time, our work is not the entirety of who we are. And we long to know our value beyond our various accomplishments.
On the one hand, we’re simply participating in the law of harvest in which our hard work is rewarded and laziness has its own consequences. All the same, our true identity and place to belong is not ultimately dependent on such things.
For instance, we naturally hold our kids accountable for their behaviors. It’s our duty to train them in the way they should go. But they remain our children regardless of their work ethic at home or at school. As such, they still receive the blessing of our love and belonging because they remain members of our family irrespective of their behaviors otherwise.
It’s this same sense of identity and belonging we long for as well – to know we are seen and valued beyond our professional accolades. We still want our excellence at work recognized, but also for someone to love us just because.
In the end, work hard and enjoy all the praise that comes from making a difference in the lives of others. And allow yourself to be seen and loved for who you are beyond the work you do. You have a true identity that transcends your performance.
Photo by Divad Sanders on Unsplash
