“One Being Is as Precious in His Sight as the Other” | Barbara Day Lockhart | May 1992
Aug 2, 2023
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Barbara Day Lockhart, a speaker at a BYU devotional, emphasizes the preciousness of every individual in God's sight. She shares humorous anecdotes contrasting earthly titles with divine worth. The discussion dives into self-acceptance, highlighting the importance of finding identity in divine love while urging listeners to embrace the transformative power of Christ's Atonement. Lockhart stresses that recognizing our inherent value leads to healing and personal growth, reinforcing the message that every soul is loved and significant.
Embracing eternal values established by God provides a true foundation for self-acceptance beyond societal standards.
Recognizing God's unconditional love empowers individuals to establish genuine self-worth independent of external validation and achievements.
Deep dives
The Illusion of Identity
Seeking identity through societal standards leads to disillusionment and unhappiness. The belief that self-worth can be derived from achievements, appearance, or external validation creates a deceptive mirage. True self-acceptance can only be attained by embracing eternal values established by God. Understanding one's identity in relation to divine principles fosters a more authentic sense of self.
The Nature of Absolute Truth
Acknowledging the existence of absolute truths is essential for personal development and understanding our relationship with God. These truths, as opposed to relative notions popular in society, offer a permanent foundation for self-acceptance. Embracing the belief in being spirit children of divine parents instills a profound sense of worth that transcends worldly standards. This foundational understanding serves as a guiding light, helping individuals navigate life's challenges.
The Role of Divine Love in Self-Acceptance
Recognizing and accepting God's unconditional love is fundamental to establishing a true sense of self-worth. This love cannot be earned nor taken away based on achievements or failures, and understanding this alleviates the pressure to conform to worldly expectations. Instead of seeking validation from others, individuals can focus on nurturing their relationship with God, which leads to genuine peace and self-acceptance. Embracing this divine love allows for personal growth, free from the constraints of societal judgment.
Dependency on Christ for Fulfillment
Human beings are ultimately reliant on Jesus Christ for spiritual fulfillment and eternal life. This reliance encourages individuals to let go of their burdens and insecurities by leaning on Christ's grace and love. Instead of striving for acceptance through personal accomplishments, recognizing one’s dependence on the Savior fosters authentic joy and satisfaction in life. By operating from a place of faith and love, individuals can escape the cycle of competition for approval and instead serve others selflessly.
Barbara Lockhart teaches that all of God's children are equally precious in His eyes. He loves us, and we must learn to love ourselves. Access the speech page here.