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

For Meditation

An area of our life that may be our greatest weakness is dancing with condemning thoughts and opinions about ourselves.

 The things we see and hear around us could impact our self-worth. But more than that, what we believe about ourselves could, over time, become “truths’ that begin to influence our value. I call it self-devaluation.

 Stop it right there!

 What does God say about you, and how does He see you? What does scripture say about you and your relationship with Christ? What does it say about your future?

 Yes, the Bible does not mention your name anywhere. But your name is in every verse that speaks about God’s love and value for His children.

 Are you not a child of God? So, what is your problem? How can you read about how God addressed Gideon and turn away thinking, “Well that was for Gideon, not me?” (Judges 6:12). The way Gideon perceived himself before the angel of the Lord addressed him as a “mighty warrior,” is the same way you are thinking about yourself right now, and it is oppressing you. Renew your mind! (Rm. 12:2).

 So here is the deal. Embark on a demolition project on your conscience. Let Paul’s words in today’s scripture be your mantra from now on.

 “[I] demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God [and what He thinks about me], and [I] take captive every [condemning thought about myself] to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Cor. 10:5).

 Now, go on to rebuild your thoughts about yourself based on biblical truths. Confess them every day and see how life changes for you.

 But before then, bring your hurts to the altar of God and forgive those who have hurt you. Allow God to heal you, then lift your head to Jesus and walk boldly with Him.

 May the Holy Spirit lead and empower you in this reconstruction exercise of your self-esteem for God’s glory, in Christ Jesus, amen.