On various social media platforms, I frequently come across a post that perpetuates #EarnedNotGiven.
These posts typically provide insight into athletes, influencers, or business professionals, in regards to their work ethic. A work ethic that produces results and rejects entitlement.
After all, we work hard for the things that we cherish most in life, and we want to feel like we earn the output of our labors.
I also support hard, humble work over entitlement. Entitlement derails commitment, appreciation, and resilience.
However, the bigger picture of #EarnedNotGiven is not true. Not in the slightest. From my eyes, it’s downright dangerous.
Enough complaining. Let me propose a solution.
I contend that #GivenNotEarned is the most accurate depiction of our lives. That’s right. I propose the full reversal of #EarnedNotGiven. It may be counterintuitive, but let me explain myself.
And no – this reversal does not indicate entitlement, complacency, or lack of ownership.
Far from it. #GivenNotEarned reinforces humility, perspective, and accountability.
But why?
My contention is rooted in faith. As children of God, we have been saved, blessed, and graced by God.
We did not, and cannot, do anything to earn God’s salvation, blessings, and grace. He gave these to us, gives them to us, and will give them to us, regardless of our works.
Humility: By honing this perspective, in which we understand and appreciate what God has given us, we humbly submit ourselves to His sovereignty. We become more grateful for what He’s bestowed upon us, as well as what we encounter as we progress throughout our lives. With every success and adverse experience alike, we can humble ourselves and appreciate our God-given abilities that glorify Him, support our individual purposes, and add value to others.
Perspective: This new perspective itself, rooted in humility and in God’s sovereignty, allows us to identify as children of God and people of worth. With this identity, we anchor ourselves to the unchanging, unrelenting presence of God in our thoughts, actions, and accomplishments. We can effectively combat the changing, wavering elements of our earthly existence by embracing the unchanging and unrelenting elements of the #GivenNotEarned perspective. We are empowered to trek through adversity and shine in triumph by always clinging to our identity in Him, which motivates our thoughts, actions, and responses to external forces.
Accountability: The third component, accountability, captures the nature of the #EarnedNotGiven Movement and applies it more appropriately. We hold ourselves accountable to God, to our identity, and to our purpose by leveraging our God-given abilities to add material value to the world around us. This leverage incorporates hard work, smart work, and the cultivation of our skill set. As a byproduct of our appreciation for God and His graces, as well as our permanent identity in Him, we are driven to apply our talents, efforts, and resources to glorify Him and maximize both what we’ve been given and what we face throughout our lives.
The virtuous cycle of humility, perspective, and accountability captures the essence of the #EarnedNotGiven Movement while establishing a clearer picture of the true meaning behind our endeavors and purpose.
#GivenNotEarned does not tolerate entitlement. It does not stand for complacency. It realigns and reorients us to the root of our lives. That root is Jesus – He gave His life for us so that we can lead our lives through His salvation, blessings, and grace. With this root secured in place, we can cultivate branches and fruits by leveraging humility, perspective, and accountability.
Put an end to #EarnedNotGiven by digging deeper, discovering your root, and watering it with the principles behind #GivenNotEarned.
Let’s start a new #GivenNotEarned Movement! In truth, it’s not new at all – it’s been with us since the beginning of time. It’s about God, faith, and grace.
This is the Movement that will keep us going, for this short life and for the overarching landscape of eternity.
Remember, make sure you keep the Big Picture in mind. And the Big Guy in your heart. Always.
God bless you and your journey 🙂
