Self Hatred

I know....A strange title to a blog entry. But, I wanted to take a moment to look at what Proverbs says as to whether or not you really love or despise yourself. In Prov. 15: 32& 33 it says, "Those who disregard discipline despise themselves,but the one who heeds correction gains understanding. Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD and humility comes before honor."

I find it interesting that the Bible in so many places talks about the importance of discipline and correction by others in our lives (accountability). And, in this passage, it says that if you disregard discipline you "despise" yourself. It contrasts that with the person that heeds correction and then "gains understanding." It concludes with the reality that "humility comes before honor."

I believe the Bible is saying something really basic. We don't have all the answers. If that is true then, we must surround ourselves with people that will offer correction and discipline in our lives. Of course, to do that you must embrace the fact that you don't know it all and that can only occur in the context of true humility. Here are some basic steps to begin the process of gaining understanding and honor:

1. Admit that you don't know it all. Humble yourself before God.

2. Seek out others in your lives that are trustworthy people.

3. Ask those people to speak into your life. Encourage it.

4. When they do, know that it is not an indictment on you as a person. Rather, it is proof that you are a wise person that loves himself.

5. Pray about what is communicated and ask God to reveal to you whether it is truth.

Do you despise yourself?