Awkward in Algebra

READ: ISAIAH 44:6-24; 1 JOHN 5:20-21

In ninth grade, I struggled with algebra. As the “smart kid,” I placed a lot of importance on my grades—not just because I wanted to do my best, but because excellent grades gave me a ticket to self-worth. Without academic success, I couldn’t point to anything that made me feel valuable.

One day, Mrs. Russell returned our recently graded tests. I sighed when I noticed the C on my paper. I looked up to see that the guy sitting in front of me, who I’ll call Derrick, had scored a high B. Derrick hadn’t been known for earning good grades. Stunned, I blurted, “How could I make a C, and Derrick gets a B?” I announced this loudly enough that Mrs. Russell heard, Derrick heard, my friend Audrey heard… the entire class probably heard.

Immediately I blushed with embarrassment. But the damage was done. Mrs. Russell scolded me as the bell rang. We left, and Audrey confronted me for saying something so mean. Later, I apologized to Derrick, who forgave me. But what had led to my verbal explosion?

I’d slipped into believing my life was found in academic accomplishments. Pursuing good grades can be worthwhile, but I’d made an idol out of them. Then, as I fumbled in algebra, I lashed out when that idol didn’t seem to work for me. And Derrick suffered because of it.

Thankfully, idolatry and sin are no match for Jesus. He has forgiven us through His death and resurrection, and He’s also given us a source of life beyond any short-term achievements. Once we know Jesus, we become God’s much-loved children, who worship Him as the “only wise God” (Romans 16:27). Idols like grades, sports, or the approval of others have nothing to offer us except emptiness. But Christ is our life (Colossians 3:4). • Allison Wilson Lee

• Where do you turn for a sense of fulfillment? If you’re not sure, pay attention to where your focus is. It could help to consider these questions: When you’re upset, where do you turn for reassurance? Which failures hurt the most? What achievements or talents are you proudest of? Noticing these things can help us identify our idols. It’s certainly not wrong to find satisfaction in the gifts God has given us, or to feel the pain of failure deeply, or to be proud of our abilities. But when we let these things rule our lives, instead of Christ, we’ve stumbled into idolatry. Thankfully, whenever we notice idols in our lives, Jesus invites us to bring them to Him. We can confess openly and rest in His sure forgiveness. He loves us, and the life He offers is so much better than anything an idol could give. He is eager to help us walk free of idolatry.

Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts. 1 John 5:21 (NLT)