In today’s world, it’s so easy to be hard on ourselves. We compare our lives to others, notice every flaw, and sometimes speak to ourselves with words we would never use on a friend. The scripture says, “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well.” Psalm 139:14
I read about a brother called John, a middle-aged accountant, who spent years feeling invisible. He was competent at his job and a loving father and husband, but he constantly downplayed his achievements. Every mistake haunted him, making him doubt his worth. One day, after reading Psalm 139 in a community group, something changed in him. He realised he had never spoken words of encouragement to himself the way he did to his kids.
John began a new habit: every morning, he would look in the mirror and say one good thing about himself. At first, it felt awkward, but over time, this simple practice softened his heart. He became more patient, more joyful, and unexpectedly more confident. John’s story shows that self-respect is not arrogance; it’s acceptance of the truth that we are loved and special to the one who made heaven and earth.
The power of words cannot be overstated. Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Words are seeds, and what we say to ourselves can either grow into weeds of despair or gardens of hope. Many of us carry painful words spoken over us by parents, teachers, or relatives like invisible stones in a backpack. But just as negative words can wound, so also positive words can heal.
Consider the story of Maya Angelou, the famous American poet and author. Angelou faced unspeakable trauma and prejudice from a young age. For years, she didn’t speak, believing her voice brought pain. But as she grew, she started to see herself through a new lens, one of purpose and resilience. She came to realise that her life, with all its scars, was not broken but beautifully complex.
Angelou’s journey reminds us that seeing ourselves as a blessing isn’t about ignoring our challenges; it’s about recognising the power and meaning woven through every experience. The scripture says, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” – Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
We are often much kinder to others than we are to ourselves. Think about it: if a friend came to you feeling defeated or unworthy, would you criticise them, or would you encourage them to see their strengths? Most of us instinctively choose kindness. Yet, when it comes to our own inner dialogue, we can be our harshest critics.
Imagine treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend. What if we believed, deep down, that we are a blessing not because we are perfect, but because we are perfectly loved? Embracing the idea that you are a blessing, not because you are flawless, but because you are loved, can be transformative. It can silence your inner critic, foster self-acceptance, deepen your self-love, and set you up for growth and healing.
Negative thoughts will always try to creep in, especially if we are used to criticising ourselves. We can’t always stop them from entering our minds, but we can choose what we do next. Do we give those thoughts power by speaking them aloud, or do we counter them with truth? Every time we choose to speak life to ourselves—“I am loved, I am resilient, I am a blessing”—we start to reshape our inner world.
Recognising yourself as a blessing isn’t only about personal healing; it transforms how you live and how you impact others. It’s also important to add that sometimes, blessing others is as simple as listening without judgment, offering a word of encouragement, or showing up in times of need. This can help us to love more freely. Our lives become channels for hope, kindness, and encouragement.
When we stop comparing ourselves to others and start celebrating what makes each of us unique, we create spaces where love and belonging flourish. Imagine a workplace where colleagues uplift each other, a family where every member’s voice is valued, or a church where every story is honoured. These communities don’t happen by accident; they are shaped by people who have learned to bless themselves so they can bless others.
It’s important to note that spiritual practices help anchor us in these truths. Prayer, meditation, and gratitude are not just rituals; they are lifelines. Begin each day with a moment of stillness, thanking God for the miracle of your existence. If you struggle to believe you are a blessing or struggle with blessing yourself, be honest about it in prayer. Ask for help to see yourself through God’s eyes. Meditate on verses like Psalm 139:14 or 2 Corinthians 5:21, letting the words sink deep into your heart.
YOU ARE A BLESSING!
One practical idea is to keep a gratitude journal. Each night, write down three things you appreciate about yourself, even if they seem small. Over time, you will start to notice patterns of growth and moments of grace. Another practice is to surround yourself with people who lift you. Seek out mentors, friends, or faith communities that speak life and remind you of your worth.
There will be challenging moments in going through this process when old doubts resurface or when life issues tempt you to return to self-criticism. That’s normal. The key is to continue to work towards perfection and the truth in your heart. “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Remember, too, that your journey can inspire others. When you share your story, your challenges, and your victories, you permit others to embrace their own blessings.
As I am about to conclude this message, allow me to add this testimony of transformation. In South Africa, Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison, much of it in harsh conditions. He was repeatedly told by his captors that he was worthless and forgotten. Yet, Mandela came out of prison not bitter, but filled with hope. He famously said, “As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I would still be in prison
As Mandela walked to freedom, he chose not to carry hatred or bitterness in his heart. Instead, he committed himself to reconciliation and forgiveness, becoming a global symbol of hope and dignity. His ability to see himself and others as worthy of redemption, even after decades of suffering, changed the course of a nation.
Mandela’s life reminds us that our sense of being a blessing is not diminished by challenges; in fact, it is often forged in the fires of adversity. When you recognise your own worth, you are empowered to see and call forth the worth in others, even those who have hurt you.
As you reflect on these stories, consider how your own journey might encourage someone else. You don’t need a platform or a spotlight; sometimes the quietest testimonies are the most powerful. When you share your challenges honestly, you permit others to do the same. When you celebrate your progress, no matter how small, you model hope for those who are still struggling.
Ultimately, to be a blessing is to embrace your full humanity, your strengths and weaknesses, your victories and disappointments, and your joys and distress. It’s to acknowledge that you are a work in progress, held in the loving hands of the Creator. The more you lean into this truth, the more you become a conduit of blessing to those around you.
As you move forward, let your life reflect the words of 3 John 1:2: “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” May you prosper not only in your achievements but also in your sense of self-worth, your relationships, and your spiritual journey. May you be healthy not only in body but also in mind and spirit, knowing that your value is not diminished by your struggles.
You are a blessing. This truth is not dependent on your circumstances, your achievements, or the opinions of others. It is rooted in something deeper: the love of God, the testimony of scripture, and the stories of countless people who have discovered their worth against all odds. Let this truth sink deep into your heart. Speak it over yourself. Live it out in your words and actions. And never doubt that your presence in this world matters. You can reshape your inner world!
So today, choose to see yourself as God sees you. Choose to believe that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. Choose to be a blessing to yourself, to those you love, and to the world. Your life is a sacred gift. Cherish it, nurture it, and let it shine. If you do this, I decree and declare that you will fulfill all God has created you to be in Jesus’ name.
May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift His countenance upon you and give you peace.
