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    In Context

    What Does the Bible Say About Self-Worth — In Biblical Context

    The Bible teaches that human worth comes not from achievements or appearance but from being created in God's image and redeemed by Christ's blood.

    Quick Answer

    The Bible teaches that human worth comes not from achievements or appearance but from being created in God's image and redeemed by Christ's blood.

    "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works." — Psalm 139:14 (KJV)

    The Biblical Context

    Modern culture locates self-worth in accomplishments, appearance, or others' approval. Scripture places it in God's valuation. Every person is made in God's image (Genesis 1:27) — the foundation of inherent worth. David marveled, 'What is man, that thou art mindful of him?... thou hast crowned him with glory and honour' (Psalm 8:4-5). Jesus quantified human value: 'Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows' (Luke 12:6-7). The cross is the ultimate measure of worth — God considered you valuable enough to die for: 'Ye are bought with a price' (1 Corinthians 6:20). Ephesians 2:10 declares believers 'his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works.' True self-worth is neither arrogance nor self-deprecation but honest recognition of who God made you to be and what Christ has done for you.

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Psalm 139:14, sits inside Psalms 139. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works."
    — Psalm 139:14 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    Luke 12:7
    "The very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows."
    Ephesians 2:10
    "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works."

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