Mirror Mirror ~ Self Harm

What better way to start a week but through introspection.

QUESTION: If I asked myself the question, “How do I harm myself?” I have a myriad of ways.

Oh, we know the usual harms of hurting our flesh (over eating or self-indugent behavior of any kind). But, beyond the obvious ways — what about harming ourselves through:

Detrimental thoughtsSelf-demeaning wordsContaminating violations of self-abhorenceHating the image of yourselfVile words of contempt about who you are, who you’ve been or who you are not

I could make this list long, I’m sure. I have spoken more negative words to myself than I have positive ones. Isn’t that the agreement I made as a child?

The words around me in childhood were defeating — improvised words of self-hatred being taught to me. Oh the damage that tries to stay with me.

Today, I do my best to defeat this inner dialogue. It serves NO GOOD PURPOSE. But, it’s a tough one.

Father, today, I come before you and graciously ask you to teach me how to love myself on a deeper level. I am your child everyday — that should be enough but I hold myself in contempt for things I have or haven’t done. Help me find peace. Help me find deeper love. Help me be still. Perfect me in your love.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.