Now we see a blurred image in a mirror. Then we will see very clearly. Now my knowledge is incomplete. Then I will have complete knowledge as God has complete knowledge of me. –1 Corinthians 13:12 GW
Family and friends, schools and campuses, as well as clubs and churches are infectious grounds where individuals, both young and old, can sadly pick up distorted impressions about themselves. People’s opinions, unrealistic demands from others, or forces trying to mold a person into someone he or she is not meant to be, can disfigure one’s self-esteem and hinder the ability to recognize and celebrate one’s own uniqueness.To a degree, individuals who battle with negative self-image issues struggle to accept not only themselves, but others. Their distorted views of themselves lead to self-rejection and negative behaviors. They may feel that they’re unlovable, that they have to prove themselves worthy, or that they will never measure up to others in looks, job performance, church involvement, etc.Regardless of what has caused this fractured identity, a distorted mindset can be changed within an individual through a relationship with Christ, Bible study, and the works of the Holy Spirit. As we adjust our thinking to what God says about us in His Word, we begin to shed the wrong thought patterns that we’ve been accustomed to believing. When we realign our thoughts andbelieve what God’s Word says about us, we will start to think better about ourselves in a godly, well-balanced way. In return, we will experience healthier, happier relationships with God and others.
Ask God to infuse you with inner strength.
Ask God to help you move from a place of fear to a place of confident hope.