The Timely Truth for this week is ... SELF-ESTEEM

Can too much self-esteem be a bad thing? Carol Craig, an expert in psychological development has warned that parents and educators who over-praise children are creating an “all about me” mentality. She says that we’re at risk of creating a narcissistic generation full of expectations of entitlement. Narcissists, she warns, make “terrible relationship partners, parents, and employees.

It’s not a positive characteristic.” Clearly, there’s a balance to be maintained. We don’t want to be responsible for undermining anyone’s self esteem.



But there’s a big difference between teaching people their worth in God, and teaching them that the world revolves around them. Jesus, around whom the world truly does revolve, exemplified the non-entitlement mentality. It is described in Philippians 2:5-11 by the apostle Paul, when he writes in part, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant.

..” In the Psalms, King David was cognizant of keeping his own confidence in check in light of the work in him by his heavenly Father.

We read in Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV) “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” In today’s world, self-esteem can often feel like a rollercoaster ride.

It’s easy to base our self-worth on how others perceive us, our achievements or how closely we fit into society’s standards of success and beauty. When we fail to meet these standards—or when criticism and rejection weigh heavy on our hearts—it’s tempting to think, “I’m not good enough,” or “I don’t matter.” But as followers of Christ, we have an identity and value that far surpasses what the world can give or take away.

Our worth is found in Him. As believers, our self-esteem should not come from the opinions of others or from our accomplishments. These are fleeting and unreliable foundations for self-worth.

Instead, we are called to anchor our identity in what God says about us. He tells us that we are His children (John 1:12), His masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10) and loved with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3). God Himself intricately designed us, knitting us together with purpose and intention.

Each of us is “fearfully and wonderfully made,” a testament to the Creator’s loving care. God doesn’t make mistakes, and He created you with love, value, and dignity. You are precious in His sight—not because of what you’ve done, but because of who He is.

Although sin has marred the image of God in humanity, Jesus Christ came to redeem us and restore our relationship with the Father. Through His sacrifice on the cross, we are forgiven, made new and set free. This is the ultimate act of love, and it underscores our worth in God’s eyes, as Paul reminds us in Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

” If the Creator of the universe considers you worthy of His Son’s life, how could you ever think of yourself as anything less? On the flip side of the coin, many wrestle with negative self-perceptions, plagued by thoughts of inadequacy or failure, a feeling of being “less than.” The enemy loves to whisper lies into our hearts, convincing us that we’re unworthy or unlovable. But Jesus declares the truth: we are fully known and fully loved by Him.

When you feel inadequate, I encourage you to remember Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” When you feel unworthy, hold onto 1 Peter 2:9: “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.” This week, take note that God’s Word is a mirror that reflects His truth about who you are.

Speak these truths over yourself daily, allowing them to take root in your heart. Self-esteem rooted in Christ transforms the way we live. Instead of seeking validation from the world, we walk confidently in the knowledge of who we are in Him.

Rather than arrogance, it’s a humble assurance that we are loved, valued and equipped by God to fulfill His purpose for our lives..