Loving Yourself

But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.

Psalm 86:15

We all know that Jesus wants us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves; it’s the second greatest commandment, after all. But how much do you really love yourself?

Do you talk nicely to yourself? I think our self-talk can be very revealing.

Do you take care of yourself?

Do you feed yourself spiritually and physically?

Do you value who you are and what you contribute to those around you?

Are you confident or insecure?

Self-love comes from knowing God-love—an unconditional, freeing love that is offered to us without cost. We can get down on ourselves sometimes because we think we must earn God’s love by trying to make ourselves more like Jesus, by behaving well, by doing and saying the right things. But friend, that love is already yours. Christ died to give it to you (John 3:16). He wants you to receive it so you can actually value, respect, and love yourself.

Since it is impossible to offer what you do not have, open yourself to receive God’s love so you’ll have love to give away. The natural outflow will show others the revolutionary freedom of God’s will to heal you and everyone else.

Lord God, please help me to wholeheartedly embrace Your love for me. Teach me to love myself, and free me to share Your love with others.