Self-Esteem by:James Serio M.A.

Self-esteem has been defined as "a person's overall evaluation or appraisal of his

or her own worth." and "the experience of being competent to cope with the basic challenges of life and being worthy of happiness."

Building self-esteem is the subject of numerous articles in psychological literature. Building self-esteem is often included in mental health "treatment plans" all over the world.

Building self-esteem is article of faith in secular psychology. If the person can become more confident in his self-worth and capabilities, the reasoning goes, then he can make progress in addressing whatever issue he is struggling with. There's only one problem: This approach rarely works.

People who come into therapy often have experienced a lifetime of abuse, trauma and failure. This life experience simply cannot be cancelled out.

Using positive self-talk, clients can make progress for awhile. However, whenever they have a setback, their self-concept reverts back to where it was beforeand they are back to square one.

Trying to resolve your mental health problems by building your self-esteem is a recipe for failure. It simply does not work.

But there is a way out. The Bible explains: "For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh (Philippians 3:3 NKJV)" In other words, while you cannot succeed by your own efforts, God does provide a solution!

The Bible tells us what that solution is: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13 NKJV)."

Instead of trying to build your self-esteem, focus on your identity as a chosen child of God. Put your confidence in God and in His word, the Bible. This is an approach that will work. It is the only approach that will work!

About the author

James Serio M.A. has years of experience in the mental health field. His website focuses on Biblical solutions to common mental health issues.

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