Counsels on Mental Health

Counsel #5 — Does Positive Self-Image = Self-Obsession?

Picture: Counsel #5 — Does Positive Self-Image = Self-Obsession? CMH 71.1

Self-absorption is a potential trap that we can avoid by realizing that since we are created in God’s image, our purpose is to live a life of service to others. A healthy self-concept, guided by Christian principles, leads to a greater comprehension of our virtues, faults, and spiritual gifts rather than to self-obsession. Being self-aware enables us to better utilize our gifts for the good of others, which is in line with God's plan for our life.^[74] CMH 71.2

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalms 139:23, 24 NKJV CMH 71.3

“God desires His workers to look to Him as the Giver of all they possess, to remember that all that they have and are comes from Him who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working…. He has entrusted men with talents, and He desires them to look to Him for counsel. Thus they may use His gifts with unerring aptitude, testifying that they are workers together with God.” Ellen White in Counsels on Stewardship, p. 114 CMH 71.4

Reflect: How do you distinguish between healthy self-awareness and unhealthy self-absorption? What are the warning signs to watch for? CMH 71.5