The google word search definition describes it as “the level at which someone or something deserves to be valued or rated.” So, using that definition and adding self, it would be “the level at which you value or rate yourself.” More simply stated, it means that you hold yourself in high regard and are confident of what you bring to the table and have to offer this world.

When I was younger I struggled with low self-worth and self-esteem. What this meant is that I was not picky about who had access to my heart, my life, and even my body. I thought that everyone deserved a chance. I genuinely wanted to love others, but I entrusted my time and my heart to people who were not trustworthy. Because of this I got into situations and relationships that were not healthy. Some of the pain I experienced during that phase of my life I am still healing from. And while I have come a long way, I must admit that my struggle in this area isn’t over. There is still a part of me that wants to believe that I can trust everyone and let anyone in. But, as Proverbs 14:12 states, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.”

So now I am learning to put my relationships and the people I allow into my heart and my space under the microscope. I am learning to ask myself if I feel valued and respected or if I walk away from that person or place feeling bad about myself. Because the truth is that not everyone is going to honor and respect me, but I also have a choice to make in deciding who I am in relationship with. To some this may seem like common sense, but for me this process has taken time and years of practice. To this day I am still learning to be picky in my friendships and relationships and not to entrust parts of my heart and my soul to people who dishonor me and bring me down.

So the promise I now make to myself is a promise that states to guard my heart and not let anyone in who doesn’t see the worth and the value that I possess. I promise to not allow others to use me as a punching bag or to devalue me with their words or actions. I pray to encounter those who are truly interested in my growth and success and will call me higher. The struggle and the victory that my life has been is worth getting to know, worth respecting, and is of high value.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for discernment to distinguish between those whose intentions are to harm me and bring me down, and those who will bring me closer to You and the truth of who you are and who I am. Forgive me for believing lies and not valuing myself in my relationships with others. Forgive me for putting myself down and not respecting myself. Help me to see the beauty and the value I possess, and the beauty and the value of those around me.

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