Self-Respect: the Means for Self-Love - Part 2

How important are self-respect and self-love for determining lifestyle, success and happiness? June Jordan, the only child of Jamaican immigrants and who became an American poet and essayist, wrote in a speech: “I am a feminist and I am black which means that I must love myself as though my life depends upon self-love and self-respect.” You may or may not agree with her, but can you sense courage and endurance in her self-assessment?

Have you considered what gave Jesus courage to begin his ministry as Messiah? How did he endure the criticism, rejection, hatred and harassment for three years, then be able to go to the cross and suffer through the torturous pain of crucifixion?

Jesus believed he was indeed the Son of God and that he came to give his life as a ransom for all of mankind. Can you identify the purpose God has given you as a believer? The sharper you are in identifying that purpose, the greater will be your ability to endure the hardships of this life and still celebrate with joy the life God has given you.