For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. --Ephesians 2:10

At a recent diving competition, an Olympic gold-medal diver was asked how he copes with the stress of competitions.

He responded by saying that he climbs to the board, takes a deep breath, and says to himself, "Even if I blow this dive, my mother will still love me." Then he goes for the gold!

As a believer, Satan can take advantage of your failures and try to weigh you down with feelings of inferiority and low self-esteem. However, the Bible tells us as believers that we are 100% accepted and loved by Jesus Christ! His grace covers all of our sins and failures.

If you are dealing with low self-esteem, then keep in mind these biblical prerequisites to a healthy self-esteem:

• Recognize your need for a Savior (Isaiah 53:6).
• Accept your worth in Jesus and know that He loves you (Eph. 1:6; Rom. 8:1).
• Press on toward God's purpose for you (Philippians 3:13-14).
• Develop a realistic view of yourself in Christ Jesus (Romans 12:3).
• Avoid comparing yourself to others (2 Corinthians 10:12).

At the beginning of each day, step up to the day's challenges, take a deep breath, and say, "Even if I blow it today, my God will still love me." And then go for God's glory!

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Thank God for turning your tragedies into triumphs and for loving you even when you fail. 

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