Don’t apologize for being alive!

Today, we’re concluding our series on self-esteem and growing in our ability to love and see ourselves as God does. :-) 

The other day I heard someone say, “I’m sorry for being alive!”. I was stunned and yet…

• Many people think their lives are useless or a burden. They apologize for being alive. But God has a plan for their lives. He has plans of peace and a future for them! (Read the Bible, Jeremiah 29:11, NKJV)
• Many people don’t like themselves. They apologize for being alive. But Jesus said, “‘you shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Matthew 19:19) Isn’t that incredible? It’s the will of God that we love ourselves!
• Many weren’t told they had worth or value when they were children. Instead, they were shamed with negative comments like, “You’re good for nothing,” “You can’t do anything,” “You’ll never succeed,” “You’ll never amount to anything.” They apologize for being alive. But God says to them, “‘You are my beloved son/daughter in whom I am well pleased!’” (according to Matthew 3:17)
• Many are weak, afflicted with sickness or with situations that seem inextricable. They apologize for being alive. But the Almighty God says to them, “‘I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’” (Isaiah 41:10)
• Many don’t fully live their lives in God and are ridden with guilt and shame. They apologize for being alive. But Jesus came so that they might have abundant life. “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus…” (Romans 8:1)
• Many compare themselves to others and feel that they’re less somehow—less capable, less talented. They apologize for being alive. But God has made them unique people, those who are able to do mighty things! The Bible says, “Through God we will do valiantly, for it is He who shall tread down our enemies.” (Psalm 60:12)
• Many have been abused physically, morally, spiritually, and/or emotionally and have lost confidence in themselves, others, and God. They apologize for being alive. But our Father God is full of affection for them. He longs to restore them! He will never leave them or forsake them. (Read Joshua 1:5)

Did you see yourself in this list? If so, don’t apologize for being alive. God will heal and deliver you—He wants the best for you!

And if you encounter someone who seems to apologize for being alive, look at that person in love and encourage him/her because God hasn’t said His final word!

Declare with me today: “Lord, I choose to never again apologize for being alive. I’m sorry for the times I already have. You created me! You love me, and I believe You have a good plan for my life. No fear or shame can stop the promises You’ve made in my life! I choose hope, I choose life, I choose to forgive myself…and I choose to love myself like You love me. In Jesus’ name, amen!”