Biblical Answer

When we reflect on our lives, it's natural to wonder why things aren't going as well as we'd like, especially when we've been trying to be good people. This question assumes that being good is the key to happiness and fulfillment. However, the Bible teaches us that our worth and value come from God's creation, election, and redemption of us through Jesus Christ. As the psalmist says, "You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand" (Psalm 16:11). Our good deeds and actions are not the source of our worth, but rather a response to God's love and goodness towards us.

The concept of "goodness" is also complex, as it's often tied to our human perspective and emotions. Aristotle's idea of living in sync with one's nature is an example of this. However, the Bible teaches that our true nature is sinful and in need of redemption. As the Apostle Paul says, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Our attempts to be good on our own are ultimately futile, and we need God's help and guidance to live a life that reflects His character. This is why it's essential to focus on our relationship with God and seek His forgiveness and guidance, rather than relying on our own efforts to be good.

The problem of low self-worth and feelings of failure and shame can also be attributed to our trust in others and their opinions of us. We often look to others to validate our worth and value, rather than seeking God's approval. However, God's love and acceptance of us are not based on our performance or behavior, but rather on His sovereign choice to redeem us through Jesus Christ. As the Bible says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). Our worth and value come from God's love and redemption, not from our own efforts to be good.