For Self-love

For Self-Love

AT THE HEART OF WHAT PHILOSOPHER KATE MANNE CALLS the human giver syndrome is the belief that we should value others more than we value ourselves. This belief isn’t just false; it’s also unbiblical. Mark 12:31 states, “Love others as well as you love yourself” (MSG). “As well as” means equally, and with the same level of quality.

In the Kingdom of God, there’s no condemnation for self-love. “On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work” (Genesis 2:2). I know what you’re thinking: God rested because he was done with his work. But, girl, I’m not done with my work!

Fair enough. However, God rested to establish the importance of caring for ourselves. Besides, there will never be a time when our work is complete. There’s always another project, another obligation, and another reason to put ourselves last.

If we struggled with loving someone else, wouldn’t we pray for the ability to see them differently? So maybe it’s time to pray for the willingness to love ourselves more.

STRENGTH IN THE WORD

God will help her.

TODAY I DECLARE

I deserve love.

PRAYERFUL THOUGHTS

Dear Lord,

Teach me how to love myself. I’m not sure how to accomplish that. I know how to love others, and how to attend to their needs, but I struggle with loving myself.

Please give me a new awakening; a discovery of all that I enjoy and cherish. I’m ready to care for myself as much as I care for others. Please show me the meaning of self-love.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

KEEPSAKE

“There’s no condemnation for self-love.”