SELF-LOVE
Psalm 139:14: “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful; I know that full well.”
What do you think about yourself? What words do you speak about yourself? Are they positive and uplifting, or do you have a tendency to dwell on all of the ways that you fall short of perfection? I was reminded today of our tendency to focus more on our shortcomings, our mistakes, our areas of weaknesses, than we do on our God-given strengths and talents. It’s not that we need to become boastful, touting our every attribute at the top of our lungs; but it is okay to see ourselves as God see us—perfectly flawed…beautifully and wonderfully made—and to acknowledge the gifts that He has bestowed upon us.
Dwelling on our shortcomings is a slippery slope that can easily lead to lowered self-esteem and a distorted self-view, and it is a very easy way to become discouraged and find ourselves in a pattern of negative thinking. Nobody’s perfect, and I’m sure that few of us would find it difficult to uncover that first string of self-doubt to pick at and pull, until eventually, we unravel our healthy view of ourselves. There are too many people in this world who will be quick to judge you and point out your flaws; don’t add your own name to the list!
In 2018, let’s strive to love ourselves as God loves us—unconditionally—acknowledging and learning from our errors, but then moving past them with the understanding that while we are fallible human beings, we are also beautiful, loved children of God, and He doesn’t make mistakes. His works are wonderful, we know that full well…and you are one of His most amazing creations!
SHINE YOUR LIGHT!
On another note…HAPPY NEW YEAR! I know I’m a bit late, but I wish you all a prosperous, adventurous, fulfilling, and fruitful year that is filled with all of the love, joy, and peace that your heart can hold!
Thoughts, reactions, or testimonies? Leave a comment below. I look forward to hearing from you!