Look only to God for acceptance

"The Scriptures say, "God accepted Abraham because Abraham had faith in him.'" Romans 4:3 CEV

In a sport that values integrity, I was saddened to hear that Frank Meza, a 70-year-old retired physician who set an unofficial world record at the L.A. Marathon in March had been disqualified from the race for cheating last week. It was then reported that Frank had some other controversial finishes and had even been disqualified twice and then permanently banned from the California International Marathon as well. Several days after these stories went viral, I was even more saddened to hear that his body was found in the Los Angeles River on July 4 and his death subsequently ruled a suicide. It seems Frank, a man who likely used running as a way to gain the approval and acceptance of others and to define his self-worth, couldn’t see any reason to continue living with that identity stripped away. 

And you know, as sad as this story is, this type of despair that many people are feeling because they don't feel accepted is real and becoming more and more common. Think about it. We live in a world where people are increasingly determining their worthiness on a day-to-day basis based on how many likes or followers they have on social media or by the things they are able to accomplish. But guess what? The world's approval is fleeting and ever-changing, and if you count on it to define who you are, you too will end up despairing of life.  

But there is good news. The Bible tells us that, "God accepted Abraham because Abraham had faith in him." That means if you have placed your faith in Him, you have been accepted as well my friend. And not only accepted but made worthy! And guess what else? God's acceptance will never change. He called us sons and daughters when we chose to believe in Him and that will be our identity from now into eternity. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that when we look to the world for approval we will always be disappointed. Help us to remember that, as believers, we are righteous and made more than worthy in Your eyes. Help us Lord to see ourselves the way You see us and to truly believe that we are who You say we are. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

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