Welcome friends! I have some awesome giveaways for you, and a beautiful FREE printable bookmark packed with God’s truths about you! Keep reading to find out more…
Do you ever compare yourself to other women and feel like you don’t measure up?
Maybe you feel think you’re not as smart, pretty, fun, organized or as good at _______ as they are.
I’m sharing my heart over at P31 today about how easy it is to think that if we had more or knew more, we’d be secure. But the truth is, even people who have it all still struggle with feelings of insecurity. The Bible opens with teh story of a woman who had everything but it still wasn’t enough (Genesis 2).
Even though God established Eve’s worth as His child; the crown of His creation and lavished her with gifts of intimacy, beauty, security, significance, and purpose – it wasn’t enough. Satan convinced Eve to take her eyes off what she did have and focus on what she didn’t have.
Have you also heard Satan’s whispers, saying you’re not all you could be — or should be?
Just like Eve, you and I have an enemy. The Bible calls him the father of lies, and tell us there is no truth in him (John 8:44). Interestingly, the meaning of the word lie is “a falsehood with the intent to deceive.”
Satan doesn’t just lie. He has intends to deceive us by getting us to take our eyes off of who we are and what we have in Christ. It’s exactly what he did with Eve:
“Then the eyes of both [Adam and Eve] were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.
Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, ‘Where are you?’
He answered, ‘I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.’” (Gen. 3:7–11)
In response, God asks who told them they were naked. In other words, “Who told you that something is wrong with you?” By asking this, God made sure they knew someone was casting shame on them—and it wasn’t Him.
The enemy whispered lies into their hearts, causing them to move away from Him and from each other.
Satan’s intent for us is exactly the same as it was for Eve. He wants us to believe his deceptions and fall into the distraction of feeling inadequate, insecure and like we’ll never measure up. But we don’t have to go along with him. Instead we can pray, “Lord, help me recognize Satan’s lies, refuse his temptations and rely on Your truth about me instead.”
If we have put our trust in Jesus as our Savior, we can stand on the promises of who we are in Him. And when we are tempted to measure up, we can choose to focus “up” instead as we rely on these truths to remind our hearts of who you are in Christ.
I am accepted . . .
- I am God’s child. John 1:12
- I have been bought with a price and I belong to God. 1 Corinthians 6:19–20
- I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child. Ephesians 1:3–8
- I have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ. Hebrews 4:14–16
I am secure . . .
- I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances. Romans 8:28
- I am free from condemnation. I cannot be separated from God’s love. Romans 8:31–39
- I have been established, anointed, and sealed by God. 2 Corinthians 1:21–22
- I am hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:1–4
- I am confident God will complete the good work He started in me. Philippians 1:6
- I have been given a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
I am significant . . .
- I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit. John 15:16
- I am a minister of reconciliation for God. 2 Corinthians 5:17–21
- I am seated with Jesus Christ in the heavenly realm. Ephesians 2:6
- I am God’s workmanship. Ephesians 2:10
- I may approach God with freedom and confidence. Ephesians 3:12
- I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
___________
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ENTER TO WIN by clicking “share your thoughts” below this post and simply share the truth from today’s post/devotion that spoke to your heart most OR which “Who I am in Christ…” promise you’re holding onto today! Your comment will place your name into the drawing to win!
PS. Wanna help make today’s encouragement contagious?
Just click the share buttons below. It’s super easy!
tamara says
Thank you ~ I am a child of God and He loves me now matter what…. He is who fills me, loves me, strengthens me . I am loved no MATTER who I am or what I have done. I am HIS!
Sara says
Such a great reminder of how God sees us!
Andrea says
Thank you! I woke up measuring myself this morning. This is exactly the reassurance I needed. To reaffirm that I am God’s child. My focus was redirected.
Michelle says
Started my day this morning with a heart full of worry. That’s not so unusual for me. But reading this has reminded me of my strength. The strength I have because of who Christ is. I only need to call on Him, and now I can handle the day ahead. Thank you!
Mandy says
What an amazing reminder amidst the things that are happening in my newly married life. It is so easy to look at couples starting out and think they have it all together and wonder why we are struggling. Renting to pay off debt first and then buying a house vs seeing new couples buy houses and “start off well” has been a struggle of mine lately as I want a place to call my own. This devotional really helped me to remember that we are on our own path with God and not someone else’s path.
Cindy says
“…we are on our own path with God and not someone else’s path.” What a great reminder, Mandy. Thank you very much. May God continue to bless you richly!
Bridget says
Wow! The timing of this message was perfect. Just this weekend, something sent me into a downward spiral. Deep down I know it’s the enemy just trying to beat me down. But when my feelings take over, it can be so hard to climb out of that rut. The you so much for sharing this beautiful message.
Todi says
This couldn’t have come at a better time. I was just dreaming–literally-of how I fall short at work. I want to do more and be better. Lord Jesus, please help me to stop comparing myself to others and to follow the path you have laid before me. Amen
Kristen says
Thank you for the encouragement. It really spoke to me this morning. May God bless you as you continue to speak his truths and speak into the lives of women everywhere.
Cindi Ruiz says
I was so deeply moved by your message about comparing ourselves, but mostly the “who I am” statements . I struggle with this daily, and have just began my healing journey. I am an incest survivor and have had many negative messages instilled in me quite contrary to what these statements affirm that I am. I do like these much better, however, trusting and believing the validity of them is another matter. As I said, I am just beginning what I’m sure will be a long road to healing, wholeness, and hopefully fullness in Christ.
I would so dearly love to be blessed as a recipient of your book, and although I doubt I would win, I will still pray for favor. I pray you are blessed with all you do in your ministry. It is obvious that you tough lives, for I am a life that was changed by just this message. Thank you. God bless
Cindy says
Praying for you, Cindi! Father God, thank You for speaking to Cindi through Renee’s message. Please consistently remind her of who she is in You and because of You – because of Jesus and His death, burial and resurrection. May the lies/lying voices be silenced and Truth prevail in her mind and in her heart. Thank You, Father God, that Your will is indeed healing, wholeness and fullness in Christ. May Cindy be strengthened in her inner man to hold on to that and CLING to her loving Savior, Jesus. May she securely anchor her Hope in Him whom God made our Wisdom, Righteousness, Consecration and Redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30.
Here it is in the Amplified Bible: “But is from Him that you have your life in Christ Jesus, Whom God made our Wisdom from God, [revealed to us a knowledge of the divine plan of salvation previously hidden, manifesting itself as] our Righteousness [thus making us upright and putting us in right standing with God], and our consecration [making us pure and holy], and our Redemption [providing our ransom from eternal penalty for sin].
THE MESSAGE BIBLE: “Everything we have – right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start – comes from God by way of Jesus Christ.”
The New Living Translation: “God alone made it possible for you to be in Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made Christ to be wisdom itself. He is the one who made us acceptable to God. He made us pure and holy, and He gave Himself to purchase our freedom.” 31 As the Scriptures say, “The person who wishes to boast should boast only of the Lord has done.” (Jeremiah 9:24)
Love, hugs and prayers,
Because of Jesus,
Cindy
Susan W. says
Cindi, I want you to know that I’m praying for you. My first online Bible study was Renee’s. It was rewarding, to say the least. Her book is awesome and full of encouragement. Saturate your mind and heart with God’s Word, read a devotional (Renee has a devotional that goes with her book), music (I enjoy Christy Nockels CD Let It Be Jesus, and put Renee’s statements “Who I am” in a place where you can read them over and over again. God Bless You Cindi! With Love & Friendship, Susan
Chelsee says
I felt like your devotion today really resonated with me. Comparisons are a constant struggle for me. Even as I read through some of the previous posts I started to worry that I don’t have anything as profound to say/comment as others but I found it so comforting to be reminded that God loves me for who I am and that I am secure in Him. Thank you.
Kathy says
I struggle with confidence and significance. Thank you for reminding me that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Jill Dupre says
Lord, help me recognize Satan’s lies, refuse his temptations and rely on Your truth about me instead.”
I needed that prayer today!
Martha Parrish says
I am struggling lately with why I can’t lose some weight, be organized, have a clean house, be a patient mom and the list goes on. All of these promises bring me such encouragement. I loved your devotional this morning and the places in scripture I can turn to when I feel like I need reminding of these promises. Thank you!
Justine says
I loved this reminder! It got me thinking about who God made me to be! Comparing myself to others can be such a trap! Especially when I try to be like them in ways that God never meant for me to be. I need to focus on God’s truth and not the lies the enemy is constantly whispering to me. I am God’s workmanship! Ephesians 2:10. Our good God does not make mistakes!
Lisa Richardson says
I just recently studied this is my bible study…I think it’s so hard as women not to compare ourselves. God doesn’t compare us, why should we? This is something we need to be reminded frequently. Thank you!
Cathy says
I love the affirmation and knowing that God created us to be who we are – we are loved. I want to live this out in a way that my children will understand these truths!
Sara says
I am a child of God! I am a daughter of the One True King!! I am a princess of the Most High!!! What a wonderful truth to tuck into my heart to start the day.
Erin Tunnell says
Thank you so much for sharing your heart. I needed this today. Today is the first day of a medical treatments that I will receive weekly for the rest of my life. Two days ago, I was at the lowest point I’ve been since this journey started. In addition I felt guilty for feeling so low when so many others face even worse and untreatable medical scenarios. A sweet friend reminded me that we each have our burdens and challenges in life, and I shouldn’t compare mine to another’s but instead rely on God to be the finisher and perfected of my faith.
So Philippians 1:6 really hit home. I have to trust God to complete this work in me, and trust that He can and is working in and through whatever comes my way.
Erika says
I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
Christina says
This was such a great truth! God really showed me that I need to keep my eyes on the One that sets the standard, holds the standard and has brought me up to standard, rather than those that insist they are the standard.
Cindy says
Wow, Christina! This is great: “I need to keep my eyes on the One that sets the standard, holds the standard and has brought me up to standard, rather than those that insist they are the standard.” Much food for thought here! Thank you very much. May God continue to bless you richly!
Sara says
Thank you so much for the devotional today. More often than not I find myself comparing and this was such an encouragement to me. I love Ephesians 2:10! I’ll be writing that out as a reminder to myself!
Kayla says
Thank you for reminding me of the truth that I am accepted and secure in Christ. I am holding onto that as I embrace some change and move toward his plans for me in my life, particularly my career, right now. I need that reminder to boost my confidence to pursue my writing dreams.
Kim says
Thank you for your word this morning! Deception and comparison will suck the life out of you. Satan wants to steal our joy all the time. I struggle with this as does my daughter and it’s so hard not to compare, question, etc. Thank you for this devotion as a fantastic reminder that Satan is the real enemy. Help us to be strong in Christ!
iliana says
My desire is to have God Confidence!
Karen C says
Satan doesn’t just lie. He intends to deceive us by getting us to take our eyes off of who we are and what we have in Christ. That statement makes things so clear for me. Many times what I am perceiving as real fact about my life and circumstances is just a deception of Satan to keep me in doubt and fear. God’s truth implanted in my heart will give me confidence to live a powerful and secure life. It’s good to know Satan’s devices because the truth will set me free.
Cindy says
Thank you, Karen. True statement: “Many times what I am perceiving as real fact about my life and circumstances is just a deception of Satan to keep me in doubt and fear.” May I also add, to keep us in the lie. Does that make sense? It could also be be lies from our own flesh and the world – two more enemies of God – our loving Heavenly Father. I so do not want to entertain those enemies. Please help me, Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. May God continue to bless you richly, Karen.
Marcia says
This was perfect – thank you for the lovely reminder not to compare ourselves to other’s when the only person who really matters is God in our lives – He knows us, accepts us and loves us no matter what. I love the reminders you added in the devotion of who we are in Christ. I will print these and put these up in my cubicle at work. And, I will share these with my daughter, who is 9, and well, being a girl going through changes can be tough. thank you.
Tiffany says
After being up with my 8 month old twins at 2am, I couldn’t fall back asleep. So I checked my email, instead of checking Pinterest. I found myself drawn by the Spirit to read today’s devotional now, instead of with my morning coffee. Your devotional helped my mind reframe my comparisons of others into an authentic prayer for them and to restate God’s promises over my life. Thank you for sharing your wisdom & knowledge with me!
Cindy says
Wow, Tiffany! Reframing in your mind your comparisons of others into authentic prayer for them and restating God’s promises over your life is such a good idea! Thank you very much for sharing. May God continue to bless you richly.
Sue G. says
Sometimes we get so buried in lies that we can’t see the Son, or his liberating truth. Thank you for pointing us back to the One who is our all in all, and the foundation of who we are. He is faithful. He never wavers.
Cindy says
Amen, Sue! Powerful! Thank you so much for sharing! May God continue to bless you richly!
Nicole Benjamin says
I’d often think I’m not qualified to preach because I haven’t been through enough or someone else could minister better. However I’m beginning to realize that God has,placed in me what no one else has,to reach the ppl He has in my path. But in life it’s so easy to look at someone else’s yard & desire their green grass all to try and fit in, but God is showing me to truly appreciate what you have and if truth be told you wouldn’t have joy with those things because they aren’t you. So be OK with who you are and enjoy life. Thank you Renee for reminding us to enjoy our uniqueness.
Cindy says
Thank you, Nicole for sharing here. I really appreciate the phrase, “…you wouldn’t have joy with those things because they aren’t you.” Wow! What a thought to ponder before our loving Father God. I also appreciate the phrase, “… enjoy our uniqueness.” Why do we not do that more? I guess it goes back to the world, the devil and our flesh and their lies! Oh, my! Time to stop listening to them for good – though I know that is easier said than done – it is very possible with our loving Heavenly Father and His Holy Spirit. May God continue to bless you richly, Nicole.
Rita Stephens says
Thank you for sharing your heart. No matter how old we are it seems we as women still struggle with feelings of inadequacy. Thank you for reminding us where our true worth comes from.
Manisha P. says
I am confident God will complete the good work He started in me. Philippians 1:6
connie says
I’ve always wished I had the confidence of those around me, thanks for powerful thoughts to help retrain my insecure ones
Lisa says
Thank you Renee for your encouraging words. I have struggled with comparing myself to others for years and still do. I am however learning to look at my strengths and listen to GOD’S voice instead of Satan”s lies.
Donyelle says
Thank you, thank you! I’m sitting here this morning battling with feelings of inadequacy about many aspects of my life. I realize that it’s the enemy and I will keep Philippians 4:13 close today; especially at work.
I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength.
Amy says
I love how you stated God’s reaction to Adam & Eve knowing they were naked, “Who told you that something is wrong with you?” For me a pause to reflect on that question could help ease self doubt. Thank you Renee.
Cindy says
Thank you for sharing that, Amy. I guess it didn’t stick out for me as much as I read through the devo, but it is a very good question! It makes me smile! May God bless you richly!
Nancy M in NJ says
I keep the 2 Timothy verse on a which I use as a bookmark 🙂
Life is such a struggle sometimes… Thank you for your beautiful post, Renee.
Grace Ashama says
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit. John 15:16
I am holding on to the above. It’s so easy to sometimes forget that I am significant or that I matter. Chasing one thing or the other in life and how long it takes at times can make one begin to feel like I am not doing anything and lose a sense of self worth but I will choose to just focus on God knowing that no matter what. I AM SIGNIFICANT IN HIS EYES. Thank you Renee
Grace Ashama says
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit. John 15:16
I am holding on to the above. It’s so easy to sometimes forget that I am significant or that I matter. Chasing one thing or the other in life and how long it takes at times can make one begin to feel like I am doing anything and lose a sense of self worth but I will choose to just focus on God knowing that no matter what. I AM SIGNIFICANT IN HIS EYES. Thank you Renee
Christy says
This really speaks to me today. I am starting in a new position today at work. It’s easy to feel insecure and lose confidence. Today I am just going to focus on who I am in Christ, and the rest will fall into place. I pray He works through me and gives me confidence and security.
Rebecca says
Thank you for these reminders that I am who God says I am! I often struggle with insecurity and tend to compare myself with others. I need to look UP instead of looking around and comparing. I have prayed that God will help me to focus on that today.
Thank you for the printable book mark as well. <3
Kirsten says
Thank you for the reminder!Thank you for the truth!God bless you!
Elaine Jones says
I feel useless. I know all the promises in the Bible are meant for me, as well as others, it’s just hard for me to grasp.
Cindy says
Praying for you, Elaine. I am praying that God send His ministering angel(s) to break the power of that lie over your life. If is a lie, you know. You are not useless, at all. You can pray for others, and that is so very important. I am sure God has more for you, too. May you be strengthened in your inner man to keep your eyes, heart and mind fixed on Jesus. He is your Lord and Savior, no? May you be enabled to be still and rest in His great and deep love for you, then be able to hear His sweet voice, receive His promises as for you, and finally move forward in His plan and purposes. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! Love, hugs and prayers, Because of Jesus, Cindy
renee schuitemaker says
Thank you for your words they are ver encouraging. I would love to read the whole book.
Jessica says
I needed to see this today. I am currently struggling with doubt regarding school. I feel as if I am always facing obstacles and I get a little burnt out from time to time. However, reading today’s post reminded me that with God by my side I can continue to overcome and succeed.
Becky says
The comparison trap speaks to my heart so very much. I am so guilty because of circumstances I struggle with, of comparing my life to other women I admire. I never measure up in my mind. Thank you for reminding me that I don’t have to measure up to be loved by my Heavenly Father, and for the truths from His Word. Much needed today.
Renee says
Oh Becky. I so understand. I’ve come to realize that we’ll never measure up to others because we are only able to compare how we feel on the inside to how they look like they have it all together on the outside. It’s only an illusion and yet it’s such a powerful distraction Satan uses to keep us from loving the life we have. Praying you will see how wonderfully made you are today – and know that you are LOVED by your Maker!!
elisabeth says
I am holding on to the promise that there is no condemnation in Christ and nothing can separate me from His love.
Thanks for these reminders, Renee!
Renee says
Amen Elisabeth! Praying Romans 8:31 for you now. Nothing can separate you from HIS Love!
mary aldridge says
I was feeling way down tonight about my self and then I seen this thanks so much for posting all of this I am going to put it under my pillow tonight too my favorite is God works for my good in all circumstances
Renee says
Praying for you this morning Mary, that you will sense God working for your good in all circumstances. You are so loved by Your Maker!!
Katie says
Thank you for speaking truth into my life. I find myself so many times comparing myself to others and feeling like I am not as talented as others or that I am more of an annoyance to them then anything. Then I am reminded that God doesn’t make mistakes and that He made me the way I am for a purpose and that He calls me altogether beautiful. I love the verse by 2 Timothy 1:7. Living insecure is the last thing that God wants for me. Now it’s about taking that head knowledge and transferring it as heart knowledge! Thanks again for your encouragement 🙂
Cindy says
Thank you for everything you shared, Katie. These days I am feeling like I am more of an annoyance lately. 🙁 I ask a lot of questions, and this makes people feel like I want too much detail. It probably makes them feel other ways, too, that I know not. God is dealing with me, too, about trying too hard to help others. I really like your statement,: “Living insecure is the last thing that God wants for me.” That is so true – otherwise why would He have provided us with so much encouragement, so many promises and such a great and deep love! 🙂 May God continue to bless you richly!
Renee says
Thank you for sharing Cindy! I love what you said here: Living insecure is the last thing that God wants for me.” That is so true – otherwise why would He have provided us with so much encouragement, so many promises and such a great and deep love!
So so true. Praying for you today!
Cindy says
Thank you, Renee.
Renee says
You are uniquely and wonderfully made! Hand-made by your Maker and He loves you! Praying for what we know in our heads to sink deep into our hearts today. And praying 2 Tim 1:7 specifically for you this morning Katie!!
Miranda says
Love this, Renee!! It is always great to reminded that we are HIS and we have a purpose. I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child. Ephesians 1:3–8 Is the one I most related to (I related to all, but this being chosen is the one I struggle with most) I always think I am not good enough and don’t measure up to the expectations of being a Christian then I remember that God loves us just the way we are and He is working in my life to mold me into His image I just have to let him.
Cindy says
Yes, Miranda! Thank you very much for this reminder. May God continue to bless you richly.
Renee says
Such a beautiful promise and reminder – one I need everyday too! Praying this beautiful truth of being chosen and enough will sink deep into our bones today Miranda!
Kim Stewart says
Oh sweet Renee! I am tucking away the promise that “I am confident God will complete the good work He started in me.” Philippians 1:6 under my pillow tonight! Thanks always for your beautiful encouragement in every area of my life!!!
Renee says
I love that promise! Thank you for your constant encouragement and the beautiful ways you SHINE His love sweet friend! Praying for you today!