This document discusses building self-confidence through trusting in God. It explains that many people lack self-confidence because they are unaware of their potential or try to define their identity based on worldly standards rather than God's love. It also notes that some feel unworthy due to past sins or weaknesses, but that God wants His children to rise up in His might. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of trusting fully in God rather than one's own strength or understanding, as true self-confidence comes from knowing God is always on our side.

1. Building Self-Confidence
by Rhonda Jones
“….I am fearfully and wonderfully made….” Psalm 139: 14 (NIV)
Believing in one's own abilities and strengths is the essence of self-confidence. The
Word of God declares that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. God created us
with amazement, awe, and delight-fulness. However, many people are clueless to the
potential God has placed within them. This causes problems with self-confidence.
Not knowing who you are
Many people are suffering from an identity crisis. Some of us have no idea what we want out of
life while others lack a solid sense of direction. Moreover, many of God's children are merely
“existing” instead of experiencing the fullness of His love. Our identity crisis occurs when we try to be
successful according to what the world's standards. However, the Word of God states, “do not conform
any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the
renewing of the mind..” Romans 12:2 NIV.
Condemnation
Some of us are too aware of our own weaknesses, limitations, and shortcomings. However,
God does not want us to dwell on those things. Sometimes sin will bring about a sense of
unworthiness. If we are feeling unworthy, as a result of sin, we must repent. God is faithful to forgive
us. The Lord wants His children to rise up in the power of His might. We serve a Great and Awesome
God who is higher than any personal weakness.
Trusting in your own strength
The Word of God states, “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own
understanding” Proverbs 3:5 NIV. Oftentimes, we run ahead of God out of zeal. We may have a good
idea and attempt to carry it out without God's assistance. This causes us to experience negative
emotions when our plan fails. This failure thus weakens our faith. Later on, God may really call us to
perform a particular task but we find ourselves feeling hesitant and doubtful. We are wondering if we
will fail like we did before.
Instead of thinking about the many ways you can fail, think of multiple ways you
can succeed. God does not desire His children to remain a place of uncertainty, doubt or unbelief.
When we realize that our past failure was a result of moving ahead of God, we will gain more
confidence.
In conclusion, we must trust wholeheartedly in God because our strength lies in Him. When we
know that God is on our side, we have nothing to fear. We do not have to feel unworthy of God’s favor
either. Continue trusting in Him and you will be on your way to attaining true self-confidence.

2. THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright ©
1973, 1978,
1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved
worldwide.