Open: What is self-esteem? What does it mean to you?

Discussion

• Why do you think it's important to realize that we are small compared to God?
• How do you think you would have responded, if you were John the Baptist and Jesus started baptizing people near you?
• Is it really bad to strive for higher self-esteem? What are some dangers of doing this?
• What's the difference between having self-esteem and having God-esteem?
• What sorts of things does a dead man worry about? Would a dead man worry about his self-esteem? Does a dead man even have any self-esteem?
• What does it mean that Jesus lives in you?
• When you look around and see hurting people, what sorts of reactions do you have? What sorts of reactions do you want to have?
• Why do you think the devil wants to make you feel useless and worthless?

Cross-References: Psalm 139:1-2, Genesis 1:27, Psalm 29:9, Matthew 10:30

Reflect:

• Do you have low self-esteem? What could be causing this?
• Did something happen that led you to think poorly of yourself? If you need to repent of bitterness and forgive someone for hurting you, then take time to do so.
• What do you need to do to make sure you have high God-esteem instead of low self-esteem?

Prayer:

• Ask God to tell you just what He thinks of you. If you're struggling with low self-esteem, pray and ask Him what you need to change to be set free.
• Ask God how you can help others have high God-esteem instead of having low self-esteem. Ask for strength to pull people up out of their despair.
• Pray for opportunities to serve, and then be ready to go and do it!

Memory Verse: I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. - Psalm 139:14