Happiness and Self-Worth

Vital to happiness is a feeling of personal dignity, or self-worth.  Because of human imperfection and the resulting weaknesses, some have a negative view of themselves,and for many, such feelings date from childhood.  It may be hard to overcome entrenched feelings, but it can be done. The solution lies in applying God's Word.

The Bible explains how the Creator feels about us.  Is not his view more important than that of any human-even our own? The very personification of love, God looks at us without prejudice or malice.  He sees us for what we are, as well  as for what we can be.  (1 Samuel 16:7; 1 John 4:8) In fact, he views  those wanting to please him as precious, yes, desirable, (get your head out of the gutter, he doesn't mean it that way)  whatever their imperfections. -Daniel 9:23; Haggai 2:7.

Of course, God does not ignore our weaknesses and any sins we commit.  He expects us to try hard to do what is right, and he supports us when we do so.  (Luke 13:24)  Still, the Bible says:  "As a  father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovah has shown mercy to those fearing him."  It also says: "If errors were what you watch, O Jah, O Jehovah, who could  stand? For there is the true forgiveness with you, in order that you may be feared." -Psalm 103:13; 130:3, 4.

So  learn to see yourself through God's  eyes, knowing that he views those who love him as desirable and that he has confidence in them-even  though they may view themselves  as unworthy-can do much to enhance a person's happiness. -1 John 3:19, 20.

Next time: Hope-Vital to Happiness

The Watchtower, 2001