We cannot live quality lives without a healthy self-image and self-love. As a theologian, I firmly believe that having a relationship with God improves our level of self-esteem.
That is why I’ve been studying the book of Psalms to find verses to read for self-love since it is one of the Bible Books that cover this theme perfectly.
Last weekend, I was delightfully surprised when a young woman from my Bible study group brought up this topic.
After sharing my insight with the group, I thought about writing this article for those of you wondering which psalms to read for self-love.
5 best Psalms to read for self-love
Psalms 139:13-14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This Psalm reminds you of God’s infinite wisdom and power. It talks about how everything God does is wonderful.
Therefore, you should read this Psalm to remind yourself that you are God’s perfect creation, even with your imperfections.
Psalms 36:7-9
“How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.”
This lovely Psalm reminds us of God’s deep love for human beings. It says that God preserves the lives of people and animals.
However, it says that only people can hide in the shadow of God’s wings. You can read this Psalm to remind yourself how special you are to the creator of the universe.
Psalms 51:5
“Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.”
This Psalm teaches self-acceptance, which leads to self-love. It says that people are sinners from conception, and God loves us unconditionally.
Reading this Psalms is a reminder to live a guilt-free life full of God’s grace.
Psalms 56:3-4
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
In this Psalm, the writer says that you can trust God through your fears. This scripture teaches that God is your defender, and there’s nothing your enemies can do to harm you.
Reading this Psalms assures you of God’s love and protection, which helps you develop a positive self-image.
Psalms 27:1-3
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.”
This reassuring Psalm encourages Christians to always lean on God, who is their light. Doing this casts out fear and restores your self-confidence, knowing that your life is built on the strongest foundation.
Reading this Psalm can boost your courage to face life and reach your goals.
What does the book of Psalms say about self-love?
The book of Psalms 139:1-18 teaches that we are fearfully and wonderfully created by an intentional God. A God who knows our thoughts and words even before we speak.
This Psalm speaks about the special relationship between God and mankind. It teaches us that God understands our temperaments and mannerisms.
According to this Psalm, you cannot escape God even in death. In order to achieve self-love, you need to go closer to God. Psalms 139:13-14 tells us that God put us together in our mothers’ wombs.
Therefore, we are God’s masterpieces. This is enough to inspire a deep sense of self-love for every Christian who takes the time to meditate on this Psalm.
How to use the book of Psalms to promote self-love
First, you can use Psalms 51:5 to remind your loved ones that even though they are not perfect, God loves them. Jesus died so we can enjoy eternal life.
Therefore, reading this Psalm to your loved ones is beneficial, especially when you are disappointed by their behavior. A show of grace during sin helps to build a good self-image.
You can also read Psalms 27:1 to train your mind to embrace positivity. This Psalm says that God is our light and savior.
Therefore, you should live your life according to the light within you. Holding on to things like unforgiveness and jealousy does not represent the characteristics of the Kingdom of Light.
This Psalm can improve the level of self-love in your family.
You may also take Psalms 139:14 as a daily reminder that God took the time to create you for a purpose. This alone is reason enough to hold your head high and pursue your goals.
This verse goes on to say that God’s works are brilliant. Since we are created in God’s image, we can achieve greatness.
Can you pray these Psalms for someone with low self-esteem?
Absolutely. These Psalms are great for helping people who struggle with a poor self-image. One of the best scriptures to use is Psalms 139: 13-18.
Start by thanking God for uniquely creating that person. Ask the Holy Spirit to remind this person that God loves and accepts all their flaws.
In the prayer, you can ask God to remind that person that they are not an accident. Pray that the holy Spirit reveals to them that their existence on earth was pre-ordained by the creator of the universe, as explained in Psalms 139:16.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.