1. a realistic respect for or favorable impression of oneself; self-respect.
2. an inordinately or exaggeratedly favorable impression of oneself.
(http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/self-esteem)
I think we should start first with what Jesus has to say on the subject:
"Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?' "(Luke 9:23-25)
Denying yourself doesn't seem to fit the mantra of self-esteem does it? We are called to a life of service and sacrifice for His glory, not ours. Any thoughts or feelings of self-worth based on what you perceive as your own abilities is giving yourself glory! We need to first recognize that we are saved for His purpose and will first, and our need second. Every ability, gift, or treasure comes from God and belongs to God. To have "high self-esteem" is to lack humility, and also runs afoul of the first and second commandments (Exodus 20:3-4). Essentially, thinking too highly of yourself is a form of idol worship, and to define it as self-esteem is put an image to it. Yes, not a physical image, but one none the less. God even names Himself "Jealous" (Exodus 34:10), He detests idolatry.
Here's the good news, and a reason not to be depressed:
"But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved." (Ephesians 2:4-5)
God bore His wrath caused by our sin on His own son, the only one who could take the penalty for us. Why? Because He loves us. Depression is a tool of our enemy, don't give into that one's whisperings. If you have given your life to Jesus, you are justified, righteous, and holy in the sight of God. What joy! What a reason to sing!
If you are feeling depressed, and nothing seems to get you out of it, one of two things is the case:
1. Search your heart, you not yet be converted! Have you given your life completely to Jesus?
2. You haven't put on the full armor of God, which is your salvation combined with the instruction of the Word. (In other words, trust Jesus, read your Bible, and go to a church that sits under the authority of the scriptures.)
Remember, this life is simply preparation for the main event, which is eternity in Heaven, reconciled to God, praising His name forever!
(http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/self-esteem)
I think we should start first with what Jesus has to say on the subject:
"Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?' "(Luke 9:23-25)
Denying yourself doesn't seem to fit the mantra of self-esteem does it? We are called to a life of service and sacrifice for His glory, not ours. Any thoughts or feelings of self-worth based on what you perceive as your own abilities is giving yourself glory! We need to first recognize that we are saved for His purpose and will first, and our need second. Every ability, gift, or treasure comes from God and belongs to God. To have "high self-esteem" is to lack humility, and also runs afoul of the first and second commandments (Exodus 20:3-4). Essentially, thinking too highly of yourself is a form of idol worship, and to define it as self-esteem is put an image to it. Yes, not a physical image, but one none the less. God even names Himself "Jealous" (Exodus 34:10), He detests idolatry.
Here's the good news, and a reason not to be depressed:
"But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved." (Ephesians 2:4-5)
God bore His wrath caused by our sin on His own son, the only one who could take the penalty for us. Why? Because He loves us. Depression is a tool of our enemy, don't give into that one's whisperings. If you have given your life to Jesus, you are justified, righteous, and holy in the sight of God. What joy! What a reason to sing!
If you are feeling depressed, and nothing seems to get you out of it, one of two things is the case:
1. Search your heart, you not yet be converted! Have you given your life completely to Jesus?
2. You haven't put on the full armor of God, which is your salvation combined with the instruction of the Word. (In other words, trust Jesus, read your Bible, and go to a church that sits under the authority of the scriptures.)
Remember, this life is simply preparation for the main event, which is eternity in Heaven, reconciled to God, praising His name forever!
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