This sermon addresses the human struggle with security, belonging, and acceptance, revealing how both external pressures and internal shame can cause us to strive for validation rather than rest in our already-secured identity in Christ. Drawing from 1 John 2:28-3:3, the pastor emphasizes that believers are already adopted children of God—not candidates hoping to be accepted. The enemy's primary tactic is not to steal salvation but to convince Christians to spend their lives earning what has already been freely given. True spiritual maturity comes from "abiding" or making our home in Christ, which means living from a place of acceptance rather than striving for approval. This settled identity transforms how we respond to criticism, make decisions, and relate to others. The sermon calls believers to rehearse their identity in Christ daily, reminding them that their worth is measured not by their best or worst moments, but solely by what Jesus accomplished on the cross.