Self-Love Through Christ:
Embracing Who You Are in Him
by Wambui Bahati

Loving yourself is important, but as Christians, we know real self-love comes from knowing who we are in Jesus. Unlike with other people, you can never leave yourself—wherever you go, you’re still there! So it’s very important to have a good relationship with yourself. But the most powerful relationship is the one you have with Jesus. Through Him, you learn your true value, purpose, and identity.

Here are six tips to help you have a healthy, Christ-centered relationship with yourself. Remember, loving yourself as God's creation helps you love others like Jesus teaches us to.

1. Say, "I Am Loved by God"
Some people think loving yourself is selfish, but God loves you deeply. He made you with care and on purpose (Psalm 139:14). Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31). So self-love isn’t just okay—it's needed for loving others well. Rest in the truth that God loves you, and it's good to love yourself as part of honoring Him.

2. Forgive Yourself
We all make mistakes (Romans 3:23), but Jesus forgives us when we ask. If God forgives you, you should forgive yourself too. Don’t let guilt hold you back. Learn from your mistakes, make things right when you can, and move forward in God’s love. "There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1).

3. Honor Yourself as God’s Creation
You are made in God's image (Genesis 1:27), and that makes you special. Show respect for yourself by caring for your mind, body, and spirit. Just like you wouldn’t put junk in a car, don’t fill your body and soul with harmful things. Take care of yourself with healthy food, positive thoughts, and God’s Word. Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

4. Spend Time Alone with God
Just like friends spend time together, take time to be alone with God. It’s easy to get caught up in distractions like phones or TV, but try to enjoy the quiet. In these moments, you can hear God’s voice and think about who you are in Him. Jesus often went to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16), and we need that time too for prayer, reflection, and reconnecting with God.

5. Find Joy and Laughter in Life
Life can be tough, but it’s important to find joy in the little things. "A cheerful heart is good medicine" (Proverbs 17:22). God made us to enjoy life and find happiness in His creation. Laugh, dance, and embrace the joy that comes from knowing God. Spend time with people who lift you up and encourage you. Trust that God is working in your life, even if things don’t go as you planned.

6. Immerse Yourself in Scripture
The best way to find self-love and guidance is through the Bible. God's Word shows us our value and purpose in Christ. "For we are God's masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works" (Ephesians 2:10). Read your Bible often to remind yourself of who you are in God’s eyes. Let His Word shape your heart and help you understand love—for yourself and for others.