Be.Loved. 25 Simple Acts of Love to Change a LifeSample

DAY 5: Be generous with your self-talk (words to yourself)

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14

When was the last time you looked in the mirror and said something kind about yourself? Really, when was the last time you even thought something kind about yourself? The narrative in our minds circles like a hamster on a wheel—If I was smarter, I wouldn’t have___, or If I was better at______I could_____ . Or, if only I had more faith. If only I was taller. Or thinner. If only... 

For example, research has shown that approximately 91% of women are unhappy with their bodies, and 83% of men are unhappy with their weight.  

You know your narrative. But somewhere in you, you also know that you are the beloved of God. “Be loved, be loved,” you hear God call from far away. And some days it seems too far to grasp a hold of. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are God’s handiwork. 

Imagine that. 

At first glance, kindness toward ourselves may seem unrelated to evangelism. The truth is, we know ourselves better than anyone—faults and flaws included. When we are able to be generous and kind to ourselves despite feeling as though we fall short in so many ways, we are also able to see others in a kinder light. 

We begin to imagine that even if all outward appearances and actions tell us someone is unlovable, God tells us differently. Even while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us…

Today, be generous with your compliments towards yourself. Look in the mirror and say words of affirmation to yourself. Your identity is in Christ. You are the beloved of God. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are adored by the God of the universe. You have a unique set of gifts that no one else has. You have a purpose. 

Reflect on this experience. Consider how you felt doing this and how it might impact how you show and share the love of Jesus with others.