Self-esteem is a phrase we throw around often without thinking about what it truly means. To have self-esteem is to have esteem about one's self. It is to regard one's self with respect, care, and admiration. It is to consider one's self with high value. Self-esteem is unequivocally tied to one's sense of self-worth. It's really difficult to feel care, respect, or admiration for something that appears worthless to you. But when that something appears worthy or valuable, respect and admiration come naturally.

Does God care about your level of self-esteem, a seemingly solely psychological concept? Absolutely. Why? Because it is important to God that you know your worth. We make wise decisions when we know our worth but incredibly unwise decisions when we don't. Think about decisions in dating, for example. How many times have we seen friends or family members accept emotional, verbal, or physical abuse by their significant others? How many times have we been in these types of relationships or friendships ourselves? Scripture encourages us to guard our hearts and minds, but we will not have the conviction to do that unless we have a strong sense of who we are. We will not garner the strength we need to sever bad relationships unless we are convinced that we are worth so much more. Our sense of self-worth and consequent self-esteem affects every area of our lives. We must regularly check-in and assess how we regarding ourselves. 

If you think you could be struggling with low-esteem, don't worry, there's good news. God is a healer. And his healing isn't reserved solely for our physical ailments, but for the ailments of our minds and souls too.  Your past experiences may have left you feeling like you're worthless, like you're not worth the respect and care of others or yourself, but God says that's a lie. You were created in his very image, knit together carefully by him while in your mother's womb, and given a kingdom purpose. (Check the scriptural references below if you're in doubt. Mediate on God's truth!). Don't let the lies of the enemy cause you to doubt the inherent worth God breathed into you when he made you. 

Question to Consider

1. Do you see the connection between your self-esteem and self-worth?

2. What are the first words that come to mind when you think about yourself? What kind of self-esteem do these words reflect?

3. What do you want for your life? Are you worth it? Why or why not?

4. What is the Holy Spirit speaking to you as you read the scriptures below?

Scriptural References & Resources

1. Genesis 1:27

2. Psalm 139:1-14

3. 1 Peter 2:9 

4. Jeremiah 29:11

5. Hope Counseling Center