Prayer to accept yourself as you are
Written by Vivian Bricker
Bible reading:
“We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10).
Listen or read below:
Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was a children’s television series that focused on helping children learn about the world, share their feelings, and form friendships. Classic characters include Mister Rogers, Mr. McFeely, King Friday XIII, Queen Sarah, Prince Tuesday, Daniel Tiger, X the Owl, Lady Elaine, and Trolley.
Through Make Believe Land and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, children and adults alike were taught challenging lessons in a fun way. For example, Mister Rogers often taught us the importance of accepting ourselves as we are. One of his famous quotes is “I like you just the way you are.” Many children had never heard such a feeling before.
Many children are encouraged to be more like someone else than themselves. Mr. Rogers’ teachings were the exact opposite because he made the children understand that they just need to be who they are and that they don’t need to change. People should like you for who you are, not how smart you are, how you look, or what you can do.
As adults, we don’t often remind ourselves of this truth. We struggle with the idea that in order to be worthy, we need to be more successful, richer, and smarter. Whenever you’re in this cycle, you need to remind yourself that it’s okay to be who you are. We don’t have to be the best at something, the smartest person, or the most skilled individual in order to be loved by God or others.
This is confirmed by Paul in the Bible. “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared beforehand for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10). The Greek word poiema is translated as “handwork” in the New Joint Translation. However, other translations translate poiēma as “work of art” or “craftsmanship.” Regardless of the Bible translation you use, the same truths govern. That is, we are God’s masterpiece.
In Ephesians 2:10, Paul also teaches that God created us to do good works and planned them in advance. This means you don’t have to try to be someone you’re not or copy someone. God’s plan for our lives is unique to us. This agrees with Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'”
God has unique good works that you can do throughout your life. Step out with confidence, knowing that the Lord is directing your steps. Follow God faithfully, honor Him, and trust Him with your life. Learn what God says about you in the Bible and take comfort in knowing that you are loved, worthy, and accepted for who you are (Jeremiah 31:3).
Let’s pray:
Dear God, it has been difficult for me to accept myself as I am. Many times I have wished to be like someone else, smarter, more beautiful, or smarter than I am. I know you don’t want me to think this way, but it can be very difficult. God, help me to know that I am accepted for who I am. Lead my heart to the comfort and knowledge that I am loved, cherished, and worthy in Your eyes. May my heart wander sometimes, but let me lead it to you.
I also ask that you help me grasp the truth that I am your work. This is a true compliment and a blessing. You have prepared good works for me, so I alone can do these works. This helps me know that I am unique and special in your eyes. I’m the only one in the world. And You created me with a particularly important purpose. It’s about doing the good deeds you prepared for me long ago. Dear God, thank you for believing in me even when I doubted myself. All praise and glory is Yours, O God.
In your son’s name we pray, amen.
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Photo credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/Marco_Piunti
Vivian Bricker earned a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry and then a Master of Arts with an emphasis in Theology. She loves theology, ministry, and all things helping others learn about Jesus. Check out more of her content on Cultivate.
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