Self-Love.

Some of us get so involved taking care of things and those around us that we forget to take care of ourselves, we forget that we too, need a day away and not try figure things out. According modern day “Einstein” Google; “Self-love means having a high regard for your own well-being and happiness, taking care of your own needs and not sacrificing your well-being to please others.” I beg to differ a little bit here on this one, please excuse me. I believe Self-Love is an important concept that each of us need to exercise, it is how we exercise it I believe that makes the difference. Self-Love is about;

• Knowing and understanding your worth:

By what or how do you measure yourself? How valuable are you? If you are a saved, repentant, and sanctified child of God. God says you are: • A Chosen Race. • A Holy Nation. • A Royal Priesthood. • A People of his OWN possession. 1 Peter 2:9 • Fearfully and Wonderfully MADE. Psalm 139:14

• Observing your actions:

Taking time alone in prayer, and talking to God and get time for introspection 2 Corinthians 13:5 , “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise.” Ephesians 5:15, Watch how you speak to those around you Colossians 4:6, let us learn to observe our actions, ask God for strength for growth in areas we are in need of growth.

• Compassion:

A form of love and concern for those around you, those who are in need, or a going through hardship, a strong desire to assist those in need. Romans 15:1-2, and Philippians 2:1-3. I remember attending a women’s bible class, and one of the speakers spoke about putting God and others first. She said, putting God and others first was a form of self-love. I remember doing a study on depression and anxiety and one of the books I read mentioned the reason why we have bad intra or inter-personal relations is because we do not have a good relationship with God. Unfortunately I can’t recall the name of the book I had found this information or even the Author. The lady, who was speaking at the ladies class I mentioned in the above, had an acronym of how to have and maintain our God given joy. She said we are to put Jesus in our lives first, she said secondly we put Others before us; praying for the saints unceasingly, helping others and caring for others, and lastly she said the You, you spend time meditating the word of God, praying-talking to God and ensuring you are in right standing with God. Self-Love is how we express our love to God, as well as those around us and in turn God blesses us exceedingly and abundantly with love and other blessings.

This for me is a challenge, I hope I can apply the above in my life this week, this month, this year, I pray for a repentant heart to choose JOY always, and at all times.