Do I Like Myself?

EricBerthe

Something amazing is happening for me. In my quiet time last week, I found myself telling God that I love being me. I was surprised to hear it coming out of my mouth. I am my own worst critic – most of my life I have analyzed what needs to be better and change. Instead, the realization that I actually like being who I am gives me a new outlook on my life and greater joy in living it.

Being really happy took hold. On the weekend, I went to a euchre tournament and met some great folks also from the Midwest. The beginnings of new friendships were launched. I enjoyed my football team winning, my baseball team making a comeback, and a new group of friends.

The lesson for our service team at church encouraged us to seek wisdom about any needed surrender in areas of our life. I challenged our team to consider surrendering self-criticism. Looking in the mirror can reveal what we think needs to change, when God says what He has made is good. Perfectionism may keep us from doing what we are called to do because we live with an attitude of not being good enough. We need to remember that we are the work of His hands and His faithfulness will change us as needed.

Considering what His word says about His attitude about His children supports the idea that He is happy with us. The notion that God is pleased with me and with you can cause us to look at ourselves with grace and mercy instead of judgment and condemnation.

Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.  New International Version (NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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