How Good Are You at Tearing Yourself Up?

I spoke with a friend recently. He said, “I am really good at devaluing myself.”

He continued. If I were to score myself, I would give myself a 95%. I am very good at self-condemnation.

In the past, whenever I failed at something, I immediately turned on myself. I would begin criticizing, shaming, and condemning myself. I became so skilled at it that I could keep it going for an entire week.

For seven days, my failure became the theme of my inner conversation.

Monday

“I’m so stupid. I will never get it right. And, I’m so tired of myself.”

Tuesday

“I can’t change. I’m so messed up I can’t be fixed. I’ll die a loser.”

Wednesday

“No one wants me. I hate being unwanted. There is no hope for me.”

Thursday

“No one likes me. I’m a big disappointment. Why would anyone like me? I don’t like me!”

Friday

“I’m different. I’m not like others. I will just live and die a freak.”

Saturday

“No one wants me. And, I don’t even want me. I will never be wanted.”

Sunday

“Yes, Jesus loves me. But I don’t think He likes me very much. I’m such a mess.”

Close

What do you say to yourself when you fail? How long do you condemn yourself? Are you learning to be kind to yourself? Your own voice of condemnation is helping to keep you trapped.

Prayer

Father, help me learn to be kinder to myself. Teach me to replace self-condemnation with Your love. Help me grow rest for my soul as I learn to rest in You. Amen.

Scripture

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

— Romans 8:1 (NIV)