Contentment–Give Yourself the Gift of Affirmation

From the book Every Woman’s Marriage by Shannon Ethridge

Rather than looking to others to make you feel good about
yourself, try looking to God for His opinion; then look inward to recognize the
things you like and enjoy about yourself. 

     Make a list of the most amazing of God’s blessings in
your life (things He’s done for you, special people He’s placed in your life,
and so on), and then create a ‘Garden of Blessings.’ I like to use rocks around
a tree, but you might want to use flowers in a planting area somewhere.  For each blessing strategically place one
rock or flower in a pretty pattern, or place them around a tree.  Each time you walk by this area, smile and
remember what a blessed person you are. 
If you’re not into gardening, take pictures that you can hang around
your house’be creative

     Make a list of ten things that you like about
yourself.  Try focusing on a variety of
things, such as your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual attributes.

     Read through several verses in Proverbs, highlighting
the positive scriptures you feel describe you (focus on encouraging
passages).  Thank God for the wisdom He
has given you as His own daughter or son.

     Carve out an afternoon or evening to do something you
absolutely love doing, but do it by yourself. 
Some ideas are walking, reading, listening to music, enjoying a favorite
hobby, and so on.  Bask in the quality
time with your most intimate earthly companion (yourself).

     Next time you exercise, think of all the things you do
with the particular muscle group you are working on.  For example, your arms may pick up your children or hug your
spouse.  Your legs may walk you into
church.  Your eyes read God’s Word and
make others feel good when you look their way with a smile.  You get the idea.  With every muscle worked, thank God that He’s allowed you to be a
temple of the Holy Spirit.  Thank Him for
accomplishing His work through you.

For more help please see Every Woman’s Marriage.

Also, please prayerfully consider joining us at our next New Life Weekend.