“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
God’s View of Us
We often forget how God sees us. Sometimes, we’re quick to speak negatively about ourselves, forgetting that we are made in His image. The truth is, our worth does not come from our mistakes or shortcomings. God has a unique and beautiful plan for each of us. He does not see us through the lens of our failures; instead, He sees the potential and greatness within us. We need to remind ourselves that God’s love is unconditional, and our identity is rooted deeply in Him and His purpose for our lives.
Genesis 1:27
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” – Genesis 1:27
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14
Isaiah 43:4
“Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life.” – Isaiah 43:4
Words Have Power
It is essential for us to remember that our words hold tremendous power. When we speak negatively about ourselves, we allow those words to shape our reality. The Bible teaches us that we are to speak life and encouragement into our lives and the lives of others. By lifting our spirits and focusing on positivity, we allow the light of God to shine through our words, transforming not only how we see ourselves but also how we perceive our circumstances. Let’s choose words that inspire and uplift us rather than tear ourselves down.
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
James 3:10
“Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” – James 3:10
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” – Ephesians 4:29
Matthew 12:37
“For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” – Matthew 12:37
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Self-Compassion and Acceptance
We are inclined to be our harshest critics, but God calls us to practice self-compassion. Speaking negatively about ourselves can carry over into our daily lives, affecting our confidence and relationships. Instead, we should accept ourselves as works in progress, forgiven and loved unconditionally by God. Self-acceptance does not mean we ignore our faults, but rather that we acknowledge them while recognizing our worth and value in Christ. We can encourage one another to treat ourselves with kindness and grace.
Romans 8:1
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 8:1
Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6
Isaiah 61:3
“And provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” – Isaiah 61:3
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
Rejecting Negative Thoughts
Negative self-talk can become a stronghold in our lives. We can often internalize negative messages from the world. But, as believers, we are called to take those thoughts captive and bring them before God. When we acknowledge these thoughts, we realize they do not align with God’s truth about who we are. By turning our minds toward the Word, we can dismantle the lies and find peace in His affirmations about us. Together, we can make an effort to reject negativity and embrace the truth of God’s love.
2 Corinthians 10:5
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 10:5
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Finding Empowerment in Christ
We are empowered by Christ to embrace our true identity and destiny. When we focus on who God says we are, we can overcome the negative thoughts that pull us down. In Christ, we find strength, purpose, and boldness to step into the lives we are called to lead. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers can help us remind one another of our mission and the truth of God’s promises. We are never alone in our struggles to speak positively about ourselves, and in Christ, we have the power to change our narrative.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
1 John 4:4
“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” – 1 John 4:4
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
2 Timothy 1:7
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
The Importance of Community
It’s so important for us to surround ourselves with uplifting and encouraging people. We can often be our own worst enemies, speaking negatively about ourselves. But when we gather with fellow believers, we can build one another up. In community, we find support and accountability that inspires us to speak positively about ourselves. Encouraging words can reshape our perception of self-worth. Let’s commit to creating a culture of positivity within our circles, where we support each other in becoming the best versions of ourselves.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Ephesians 2:19
“Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household.” – Ephesians 2:19
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the importance of how we speak about ourselves, we realize just how powerful our words are. We are reminded that we are cherished creations of God, made in His image and worthy of love. Embracing our true identity isn’t always easy, but together, we can encourage one another to practice self-compassion and reject negativity. Let’s choose words that uplift and empower, understanding that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Surrounding ourselves with a supportive community can be a huge help in this process.
We should always lift each other up, it is our duty as believers. Let’s commit to fostering a dialogue of positivity in our lives, remembering to draw strength from the promises of God. Don’t hesitate to explore more topics like moving forward and forgiving oneself as we continue to grow in our faith.
In Christ, we have hope and a future filled with possibilities. Let’s make sure the words we speak about ourselves match what God says about us.