Introduction
So many individuals in our world grapple with feelings of inadequacy and failure. Whether it’s due to unmet expectations or lacking approval, these emotions can be deeply ingrained. In this blog post, I want to share some wisdom I’ve gained through counseling and my book, “How to be a Christian in Today’s World: Shame or Fear of Failure vs. Living Confidently in God’s Love,” to help address these issues.
The Weight of Expectations
Growing up with high expectations from my father, I felt the burden of living up to his approval. Unfortunately, he passed away before I could attain it, leaving me with feelings of inadequacy. Many others face similar situations or may never have received approval from their family, resulting in an ongoing struggle with feelings of unworthiness and a sense of being undeserving of love.
Finding Strength in God’s Image
In Genesis 1:26-27, we are reminded that God created humankind in His image. Just as my daughter bears my likeness, we, too, are made in God’s image, forming a familial connection with Him. Recognizing this truth allows us to accept the value that God places on us and to embrace ourselves as part of His family.
Accepting God’s Valuation of Us
If God, as our Creator, values us and cherishes us as family, we should learn to accept and appreciate ourselves as well. Romans 12:3 advises us not to think more highly of ourselves than necessary, but rather to have sound judgment as God has given each of us a measure of faith. Understanding our self-worth can be a journey that requires prayer and introspection.
Reflecting on God’s Perspective
To combat poor self-image, we must seek God’s perspective of ourselves. In counseling, I often encourage my clients to spend time in prayer, making a list of the qualities God sees in them. This process helps shift the focus from actions to inherent traits and reinforces the truth of their worth in God’s eyes.
Conclusion
If you find yourself struggling with feelings of insecurity and low self-worth, I hope the suggestions shared in this blog post will provide some guidance. Remember, you are uniquely made in God’s image and belong to His family. Embrace His love and understanding of your true worth. If you need further assistance or have questions, feel free to reach out to me. May you find strength and confidence in God’s love for you.
