“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
I have a confession to make: There was a time in my faith journey when I lived like Jesus wasn’t enough. For years after becoming a believer, I wore busyness like a badge of honor. If my calendar was full and my to-do list was checked off, I felt important, secure, and even worthy. I loved the thrill of a well-crafted plan and the satisfaction that comes with an accomplishment.
But if I’m honest, I wasn’t just planning. I was placing my identity in the things I could produce.
It crept in slowly. My worth began to rise and fall with outcomes: whether the meeting at work went smoothly, the kids’ birthday party was a success, or the women’s event I planned was flawless. And when things didn’t go as planned? I felt anxious, frustrated, and somehow “less than.”
As I sat alone with these feelings, in His kindness, God began to whisper to my heart: You don’t need those things to define you. You just need Me.
Have you ever been there? Pouring your whole self into something, only to realize later that you were chasing validation based on the outcome rather than resting in the assurance of God’s presence?
That’s where Matthew 6:33 became a lifeline for me: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
The Holy Spirit gently reminded me that accomplishments aren’t the goal. The goal is a life anchored in Jesus.
My identity doesn’t come from being the perfect planner, doer, or achiever. My identity is in being a beloved child of God. This truth carries me further than any success ever could.
It is a continual journey, but the more I trust in Him, the less I feel the need to prove myself through hustle or tie my value to flawless execution. When I find myself slipping back into striving, I pause and pray, Jesus, I just need You. His presence reorders my perspective. His peace silences the noise, and suddenly the pressure to perform gives way to surrender.
Friend, the truth is we will never plan or produce enough to fill the space in our souls that only Christ can satisfy. The lists may be never-ending, and the applause may fade, but His love remains constant.
Just Jesus. That’s all we truly need.
Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve chased identity in my plans and accomplishments instead of resting in You. Teach me to seek You first, to delight in Your presence, and to remember that my worth is found only in being Yours. May my life, my goals, and my dreams all point back to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
It’s not too late to join us for 40 Days Through the New Testament in the free First 5 app! Each day, you’ll take a few minutes to reflect, pray, and explore Scripture alongside a community of women pursuing deeper faith. With gentle reminders, the app makes it simple to stay consistent, track your progress, and engage with teachings that strengthen your walk with God. Plus, when you create an account, you’ll unlock a bonus interactive journal to help you apply what you’re learning in a meaningful way. So don’t wait — download the First 5 app today, and start your journey through 40 Days Through the New Testament. Let God stir up your faith, bring clarity through His Word, and help you experience the abundant life He promises — one day, one teaching, five minutes at a time.
Do you ever feel like you’re doing all the right things but you're still not at peace?
When you download your free “Surrender Guide: 5 Simple Shifts to Trade Striving for Surrender,” you'll learn how to release the need to perform and instead rest in just Jesus. This one-page resource will help you release what God never asked you to carry, refocus your heart on His presence, and walk in lasting peace. Click here to get your copy.
For additional resources to encourage, equip, and elevate you on your faith journey, connect with Dr. Avril Occilien-Similien at www.flowtopower.com or follow her on Instagram.
John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (NIV).
Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (NIV).
Where have you been tempted to find your worth in your plans or accomplishments instead of in Christ? How would your daily rhythm shift if your first pursuit was just Jesus? Share with us in the comments.
© 2026 by Dr. Avril Occilien-Similien. All rights reserved.
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