Restored Self-esteem

“A capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman — who is he who can find her? She is far more precious than jewels, and her value is far above rubies or pearls.” (Proverbs 31:10)

       “Why am I always messing up?” I asked the Lord, sobbing, following a terrible misunderstanding I had with someone recently who called me a few choice words. “I can’t seem to do anything right. I’m always making mistakes.”

       I was crushed.

       I sent a text message to one of my best friends to give her a hint about what happened. I was too upset to talk, so I told her not to call me. Just pray. Of course, she called me anyway. Tears spilled down my face as she read Psalm 59 and prayed for me.

Perfect Peace

       After our call, I felt some sense of peace, so I began searching the Web for a bible study I was thinking about introducing to my women’s group — only to realize it was out of print. I called the publisher to see if it had any study guides in stock. No such luck. The gentleman on the phone suggested a similar study written by the same author.

As I read the first few pages of the excerpt online, I gasped. You are a “capable, intelligent and virtuous woman,” the Lord said. No matter what anyone thinks. You are my precious daughter. Holy. Innocent. Righteous.

       Instantly, my spirit soared!

Whisper of Sweet Nothings

       The Lord also said everyone makes mistakes, but don’t dwell on your shortcomings or condemn yourself. You’re forgiven and free of guilt. You’re the apple of My eye and surrounded with My favor.

       I smiled from ear to ear.

       The next day, I discovered a Christian bookstore that sold 8½ x 11-inch single sheets of stationery with various scripture messages on them. I saw one that featured Proverbs 31with the words “A Virtuous Woman” displayed in bold across the top. It now hangs prominently in my cubicle at work and on my bathroom wall at home as a reminder of what God says about me. 

God of All Comfort

       God’s Word met me right where I was that dreadful day — far down in the pit of despair. He healed my broken heart — and He promises to do the same for you. So when your world seemingly falls apart, cry out to the one who loves you perfectly. He will lift you up and give you a firm place on which to stand. 

Prayer: Thank you Lord for loving us so much, for seeing the best in us no matter what mistakes we make or what anyone says about us. And most of all, thank you for answering us in our desperate times. In Jesus’ name, Amen!