by Author Name Withheld 126

Created on: January 16, 2010   Last Updated: January 22, 2010

Having a healthy self-esteem, while not often emphasized enough, is one of the most important aspects of our lives. It is through this esteem that both mental and physical health are strengthened. A strong sense of purpose and satisfaction with our lives helps us to sleep at night and wake with vibrancy in the morning.

The energy and well-being of a healthy self-esteem creates charisma, which also helps create a positive and productive social atmosphere. Not only does the day seem rich and full of potential individually, but this energy and optimism can help enrich the lives of others as well. These are much more than symptoms of a healthy self-esteem, these are the signs of a Christian who has a healthy relationship with God.

The most essential element of a healthy self-esteem is a sense of individual purpose and value, and understanding the value that God holds for our lives creates the greatest possible sense of purpose. Reaching out to begin the journey toward a better and more meaningful life in God begins with acceptance.

 Acceptance

Acceptance is one of the most important factors in self-esteem. Often, individuals seek acceptance externally, yet this cannot occur without first accepting ourselves. The most detrimental element to self-esteem is an inability to accept fault or weakness. Sin exists in the world and we are all guilty. That is the first thing that must be accepted to start building a healthy self-esteem. The path toward a closer relationship with God is also a path toward a greater sense of personal worth. That journey begins with acceptance.

The first step in creating a relationship with God is realizing that it is only through the help of God that we can find salvation. No one else can justify our existence or forgive us of our faults. Nothing we do will ever seem good enough. Admitting these faults and asking for forgiveness allows an individual to move beyond the guilt and fear of accepting themselves. Not only do we accept our own faults, but we accept the help of God. It is only at this point that we are truly able to feel esteem.

Emotionally, there is finally be a sense of security, peace, and confidence once we have accepted the grace of God. This is the first of many conscious choices to embrace and improve every aspect of our lives. While this is a hard first step to take in finally reaching out and asking for help, it will never fail and this new feeling of confidence and self-esteem paves the way to continue growing and expanding.

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>