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Embracing My True Self: A Reflection on Self-Love and Divine Acceptance
As I sit in quiet reflection, the scriptural echoes of “love your neighbor as yourself” resonate within me (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 19:19). It’s an intriguing thought – the Bible, my guide for life, presumes that I hold a love for myself. This love is my benchmark, my standard for how I should extend care to others. Yet, it’s never commanded directly, rather taken as an inherent aspect of my human nature.
This self-love, I’ve come to understand, is not vanity but a God-given instinct meant for self-preservation. Just as I don’t need to be reminded to quench my thirst or satisfy my hunger, I shouldn’t need a directive to nurture love for myself. However, it stands distinct from the pursuits of my faith; it’s not the end but a means to living out my calling to love others.
Accepting myself is the first step on this journey of self-love. It’s a challenging task, to truly embrace who I am and my abilities, especially when I’m tempted to covet another’s life or dream of walking in their shoes. But these are hollow desires, for they chase a happiness that isn’t mine to claim. My contentment can only take root when I accept myself – the real, unembellished me.
Seeing myself from a divine perspective has been transformative. It’s not easy, especially when faced with adversities that could easily erode one’s self-worth. Yet, the truth stands clear and unassailable; I am valued immensely by God, loved as His child, and secured in His grand design for my future (1 Corinthians 6:20; 1 John 1:12-13; John 3:16; John 14:1-3). It is from this vantage point that I learn to embrace my capabilities and recognize my limitations without fear of inadequacy.
I now accept that there are things I may not excel in, and that’s okay. It’s a part of understanding the scope of my capabilities, ensuring I am not overextending myself. Knowing my limits doesn’t diminish my worth; it clarifies my role in God’s grand design. In this newfound clarity, I’ve discovered peace and a calling to a life of authentic service.
And here are some key takeaways. If I am unable to love myself, or receive love from others, then I am unable to give love to others. This love needs to be pure. This pure love from God is selfless meaning it is not to puff up our selfishness, but to enable others to see God’s love in us. Pure love is attractive, but selfish love is repulsive.
We warmly invite you to come to the True Jesus Church’s bi-annual Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation. See details below.
18-21 April, 2024 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation
Thursday, 18 April, 2024 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, 19-20 April, 2024 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, 21 April, 2024 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.
Please find our church location below:
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
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For online streaming, please click here.
For regular service hours, please click here.
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org