CREATED IN THE IMAGE OF GOD
DEPRESSION
«So God created man; in His own image of God He created him; male and female He created them» (Genesis 1:27).
The seventh symptom of depression is an inferiority complex wherein the affected person feels inferior, incapable and uncertain about performing any task. Elisa was a clear example of someone with low self-esteem. Although she had extensive experience and excellent qualifications for her job as a library assistant, she still saw herself as incompetent. Due to her lack of self-esteem, she ended up doing her job slowly and committing many mistakes. Every time she was faced with a new task, she used to tell herself: «This isn’t for me,» «This is too difficult,» «This is too much of a challenge for me» and other similar phrases. Despite being Christian, Elisa’s inferiority was not a good testimony to her colleagues. It would have been better if she displayed her personal qualities and attributes and gave God credit for her gifts. In regard to self-esteem, there is a critical balance between self-contempt and pride. How do to attain this middle level? I (J) once was traveling by car outside Los Angeles to participate in a meeting with former students. The traffic was so heavy that I had to use the GPS to get me out of there and direct me to alternative roads. The navigator took me through Ventura Boulevard and I soon realized what kind of people lived in that area. Hairdressers, clothing shops, plastic surgery and cosmetic dentistry clinics, gyms, massage salons, home decor stores, luxurious cars showed up one after the other. I realized I was outside Hollywood and it was clear to me that the importance of appearance was fundamental there. Many of the residents dedicated a major part of their resources to improve their self-esteem by transforming their appearance. However, Christianity does not value outward adornment but the inner one as Peter aptly says, «rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God (l Pet. 3:4). We should definitely run away from focusing on the «I.» However, God does not want us to consider ourselves inferior. Today’s verse points out our true lineage: we are men and women of heavenly origin created in the image and likeness of God.We should feel great satisfaction about being designed and shaped by the Creator. If feelings of inferiority haunt you, think about your origin and your divine bloodline. Also, think about the cross: the sacrifice of Jesus for your salvation shows the infinite value you have before God.
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Taken from: Daily Devotions for Adults 2020
“A Cheerful Heart Is Good Medicine”
From: Julian Melgoza-Laura Fidanza
Colaboradores: Alejandra Zavala & Magda Sanz
Radio Joven Adventista
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