A better self-image

So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus.

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:7-10

There is a great longing for people to discover their true self and how to develop self-image. Thousands of books were written and sold addressing needs in developing self-confidence and self-esteem. Seminars and conferences were conducted intended for those who feel they need to improve their self-image. Even the print media as well as the internet continue to provide articles and researches that deal with self-improvement. In this time and environment there is no shortage of ideas, suggestions, and strategies to help people better themselves. The Bible tells us that it is God’s desire that each one will have a great appreciation of who they are. The apostle Paul from the text told Christians in Ephesus that God intended for man to discover the purpose why they exist. In v. 10, Paul said that self-worth is discovered only when one sees God’s purpose for their lives. You discover this not by your own effort doing good works but through the surrender of your life by faith to Jesus Christ. You realized that you need to put your faith in what Christ did on your behalf at the cross so that you will be forgiven of your sin and receive the new life He offers. This is how God wants you to see yourself that you are loved by Him. “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8). So when you come to faith in God through Christ Jesus, you begin to have an appreciation of yourself. You develop a better self-image and do the good things He intended for you to do. Right now, you might feel that you are just going through the motions in life and are lacking fulfillment in what you do. Do not allow this emotion to overcome you and prevent you from living the life God gave you. Wherever you are and whatever you do, do it wholeheartedly for the Lord. Continue to be obedient to His will and pursue godly living trusting God with the strength He provides you. In this way, you will grow developing a better self-image and more importantly, you glorify and honor Him. “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24).

Blessings.