Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #5 — What About “Self?”

Picture: Counsel #5 — What About “Self?” CI 30.1

As we have discovered, biblically based self-respect is based on our value in Christ. It is not based on any intrinsic worth we may have outside of God. Many psychologists and even theologians emphasize self and the idea that “I am worthy, I am good, I am capable, I am talented, I am successful.” But the Bible teaches that in ourselves there is nothing good (Romans 7:8). CI 30.2

Does this mean that Christians should not have self-respect? Not at all! In fact, of all people, Christians should have the greatest self-respect. The fact that they are chosen by God, accepted by God, and made righteous by God far outweighs the humanist perspective of being valuable simply through being a sentient living human.^[27] CI 30.3

“Behold, what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God.” 1 John 3:1 NKJV CI 30.4

“Neither life nor death, height nor depth, can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus; not because we hold Him so firmly, but because He holds us so fast.” Ellen White in That I May Know Him, p. 80 CI 30.5

Reflect: When you base your value in Christ, how does this redefine your idea of self-respect? CI 30.6