Self-love is important in our walk with God. Taking care of yourself is a way of showing appreciation to God for His gifts.

“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” (Psalm 139:13-14)

Loving yourself allows you to see yourself in the same way that God sees you. In God, we are worthy, special, and have potential! So when we view ourselves in the proper light, we make wise decisions that better our lives, as well as the lives of others around us, all for God’s glory. 

Devotion: Loving Yourself & Receiving God’s Love 

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

The idea of loving yourself may seem selfish when only looking at the surface, but on a deeper level, self-love is not selfish at all! Instead, it believes that you are valuable and that you have worth. A lifestyle of self-love (mind, body, and spirit) is a healthy one to embrace, while an attitude of selfishness  (only being concerned for oneself)  is completely unhealthy and is not from God. It is much easier to face the challenges of life when we are healthy in mind, body, and spirit.

Receiving the love of God is the catalyst to self-love. Be reassured that that you are always accepted in God’s eyes. The Bible teaches that nothing separates us from the love of God. However, if we choose not to believe that we are loved, we can begin pull away from the Lord, causing a barrier in the relationship. This barrier can cause us to be self-destructive if we are not careful.

Because God’s love is unconditional, our individual strengths and weaknesses have absolutely nothing to do with God loving  us. Empowerment comes as we surrender and receive the abundant love and life God has to give.

Reflection:

When I love and care for myself, I allow God to love me. Accepting God’s love for me allows me to genuinely love and care for other people.

Love your neighbor as yourself.” ( Mark 12:31)

Additional Verses to Further Study Self-Love:

“Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” (1 Peter 5:7-9)

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

“A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.” (Proverbs 11:17)

Prayer Starter:

“Lord, I am valuable to in your eyes! Guide me with wisdom and show me big and small ways to care for myself mentally, physically, and spiritually.”

Wishing you a great week!