Marching Forward in Victory: Boosting Self-Esteem

Daily Scripture Threshing for Monday, March 3, 2025

Today's Text: Psalm 139:13-14, Ephesians 2:10

Key Verse: Psalm 139:14 (ESV): "I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well."

As we journey through life, our self-esteem can often take a hit. We may face criticism, rejection, or failure, which can leave us feeling inadequate and uncertain. I have been there on my journey and God has put a word in my heart for you. As children of God, we have a different narrative to draw from. Today's scripture reminds us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. We are crafted with precision and care by our loving Heavenly Father.

The analogies by Keith Brown and Bernard Rosenbaum drive home the importance of self-esteem in our daily lives. Keith shared the true life story of Greg Louganis, who, at the Pan American Games, was asked how he coped with the stress of international diving competition. He replied that he climbs to the board, takes a deep breath, and thinks, "Even if I blow this dive, my mother will still love me." Then he goes for excellence. At the beginning of each day, how good it would be for each of us to take a deep breath, match forward and say, even if I blow this dive, I am still loved", and then, assured of grace, go into the day seeking to be your very best.

We too can find confidence in our identity as beloved children of God. Bernard Rosenbaum's research shows that individuals who are told they are incompetent to achieve a certain goal or do a certain task even if they had no pervious experience with the task, or failure will perform worse than those who are told they are competent to achieve the goals and do the task. Our mindset and self-perception can significantly impact our performance and achievements.

Action Steps: Affirm your identity. Take time to reflect on your identity as a child of God. Repeat Psalm 139:14 to yourself, and let the truth sink in. Focus on strengths rather than dwelling on weaknesses. There are things you do well. Surround yourself with positivity. Spend time with people who encourage and support you, and avoid those who bring you down. Step out of your comfort zone and take risks. You are capable and competent. Take care of your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, and prioritize activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

Quote for the Day: "In Christ, you are already perfectly loved and accepted. Just as you are. You only need to truly believe the God who believes in you, and let go of the self-criticism, shame, and fear that's been holding you back. Only then can you discover, develop and dwploy the incredible destiny you are called to walk in." (Simon Olatunji #quotablequote)

Let Us Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, I come before You today, asking for a boost in my self-esteem. Help me to see myself through Your eyes, as fearfully and wonderfully made. Give me confidence in my identity as Your beloved child, and empower me to live out my strengths and passions. Surround me with positivity and encouragement, and help me to take risks and pursue my dreams. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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Thank you for being part of this journey. For additional reading: Psalm 139:1-18, Ephesians 2:1-10.

I wish you a happy new month with all my love and prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

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