Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #15 — Self-Esteem

Picture: Counsel #15 — Self-Esteem CI 54.1

Remember the story of David in the Bible? Take a second and picture this: a shepherd boy steps onto a battlefield. All around him, trained warriors are frozen in fear, and in front of him stands a giant who has mocked God and His people substantially for days! Now, imagine if David had listened to the voices that said, “You’re too young - too weak.” He would’ve walked away, convinced he had nothing to offer. CI 54.2

That’s what low self-esteem does. It convinces you that you’re unqualified before you even begin, making you question your value, your voice, and your ability to make a difference. Over time, this belief will begin to shape the decisions you make, the type of prayers you pray, and the way you let others treat you. Moses felt this way. When God called him to confront Pharaoh, he protested: “I’m not eloquent… I’m slow of speech,”^[52] but God didn’t accept his response. He didn’t need Moses to be perfect; He just needed Moses to be willing to obey, to trust Him. Self-respect starts with remembering that your abilities and worth don’t come from your accomplishments or appearance, but from God’s power and your identity as His beloved.^[53] CI 54.3

“The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation...” Exodus 15:2 NIV CI 54.4

“You may stand where you regard yourself, not as a failure, but as a conqueror…” Ellen White in Homeward Bound , p. 168 CI 54.5

Reflect: What lie about your worth do you need to replace with God’s truth today? CI 54.6