A Healthy Self-Image Today's Three-minute Bible Study Print, Study and Apply Title: A Healthy Self-Image------------------- Date: 10/27/2001 Keywords: “adopted” “grace” “love” “self-image" Welcome to eXXit, the web site designed to help you stand strong in the face of sexual temptation. Passage: Ephesians 1:5-6* In love... 5. He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, 6. to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. Questions 1. How has God demonstrated His concern and love for you?   2. What is His image and perspective of who you really are?   Practical help Experts tell us that one of the most significant influences for shaping our actions and determining our behavior is our self-image — how we see ourselves, how we feel about ourselves. If you see yourself as capable, you will likely act more confidently. If you see yourself as being weak or unable, you might even refuse to try. In our experience of personally dealing with sexual temptation, our own image of who we are also plays a significant role. These verses from Ephesians address this issue by helping us to develop a correct picture of our true identity in Christ. A healthy self-image is based on truth. What are some of the truths expressed in these verses about who you are in Christ? • You have been adopted into God’s family. You are now a son or daughter of God through Christ. • God loves you so much that He determined to do that long before you existed. • His grace has been freely given to you in Christ. • You are now fully dependent upon Him for everything because none of this comes as a reward for some good that you have done. • Your failures do not change who you are. God sees you as you really are — an adopted and chosen member of His family. Maybe your self-image needs some adjusting. Just imagine how it could change your life! Okay my adopted friend, today you are struggling with porn. I encourage you to get a grip on reality. Don’t give in to the lies and temptations today. With a healthy self-image, turn to Jesus in joy, and walk with Him in the reality of your true identity. eXXit homepage Index of three-minute studies Copyright 2001 by eXXit *Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, © Copyright The Lockman Foundation 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995. Used by permission.