Discovering True Self-Esteem in Christ: Finding Worth Beyond Ourselves

Finding True Self-Esteem in Someone Else

In a world obsessed with self-esteem, we often find ourselves on a relentless pursuit to discover our worth and value. The self-esteem movement, as we know it today, has its roots in the Garden of Eden. It was there that Adam and Eve, driven by their desire to be like God, detached themselves from their Creator and sought to find their identity and worth apart from Him.

Before their fall, Adam and Eve had no need for self-esteem because their worth was found in their intimate relationship with God. They esteemed Him above all things and found their identity as His beloved children. Their self-esteem was rooted in a humble recognition of their status as creatures made in the image of God.

However, sin entered the world and distorted the way we view ourselves. Our self-esteem became rooted in pride and selfish ambition. Instead of finding our worth in God, we began to seek it in our own achievements, possessions, and the opinions of others.

The Problem with Self-Esteem

The self-esteem movement, with its focus on self-love and self-acceptance, has led many astray. It promises to build our confidence and improve our lives, but it ultimately falls short. Why? Because true self-esteem cannot be found within ourselves. We were not designed to find our worth in our own abilities or in the opinions of others.

When we rely on self-esteem, we are constantly chasing after validation and approval. We become slaves to comparison, always striving to be better than others. Our worth becomes contingent on our achievements, and we are left feeling empty and unsatisfied.

The Source of True Self-Esteem

If self-esteem is not the answer, then where can we find true self-worth and confidence? The answer lies in someone else. As followers of Christ, we are called to find our identity and worth in Jesus Christ.

When we place our faith in Jesus, we are adopted into God's family and become His beloved children. Our worth is no longer based on our own efforts or the opinions of others but on the fact that we are loved and accepted by God Himself. In Christ, we are made new and are given a secure and unshakeable identity.

Scripture is clear about our identity in Christ. We are called "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession" (1 Peter 2:9). We are "God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works" (Ephesians 2:10). We are "more than conquerors through him who loved us" (Romans 8:37).

The Freedom of Finding Self-Esteem in Christ

When we find our self-esteem in Christ, we are set free from the endless striving for validation and approval. We no longer need to compare ourselves to others or seek the affirmation of the world. Our worth is secure in the love and acceptance of our heavenly Father.

Instead of focusing inwardly on ourselves, we can turn our attention outwardly towards serving and loving others. We are no longer driven by selfish ambition but by a desire to glorify God and build up His kingdom.

Jesus Himself modeled true self-esteem during His earthly ministry. He did not seek the praise of others but humbled Himself and became a servant (Philippians 2:5-8). He found His worth in doing the will of His Father and lovingly serving others.

Living with True Self-Esteem

So how do we practically live with true self-esteem in Christ? Here are a few steps to consider:

1. Renew Your Mind with God's Word

Fill your mind with the truth of God's Word. Meditate on Scripture that reminds you of your identity in Christ and the love and acceptance you have received from God.

Some verses to consider are:

• John 1:12 - "But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God"


• Galatians 2:20 - "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."


• 2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."

2. Seek God's Approval Above All Else

Instead of seeking the approval of others, prioritize seeking God's approval. Live your life in a way that pleases Him and brings Him glory. Remember that His opinion of you is what truly matters.

As the apostle Paul reminds us, "Am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ" (Galatians 1:10).

3. Serve Others with Humility

Shift your focus from yourself to others. Look for opportunities to serve and love those around you. The more we imitate Christ's humility and selflessness, the more we will grow in true self-esteem.

Jesus taught His disciples, "If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all" (Mark 9:35). By humbly serving others, we reflect the character of Christ and find fulfillment and purpose.

Conclusion

In a world that tells us to find our worth within ourselves, let us remember that true self-esteem can only be found in Jesus Christ. He alone gives us a secure identity and worth that cannot be shaken. May we turn our eyes away from ourselves and fix them on Him, seeking to live lives that bring glory to His name.