Love requires deliberate practice, intention, and courage to show up for yourself consistently.

But feelings? They’re slippery, unreliable, and often betray us. You need more than feelings—you need roots.

So what does the Bible say about love and how we should view ourselves through God’s eyes? Who exactly does God say we are?

God’s Take on Love and Identity

In 1 John 4:7-8, it says, “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” God isn’t just someone who loves—we are meant to embody love because God is love.

But what about ourselves?

Psalm 139:14 reminds us that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made.”

In God’s eyes, you are a masterpiece, crafted with intention, value, and purpose. Despite your scars and mistakes, God calls you His beloved child (1 John 3:1). Not because you earned it, but because that’s your identity rooted in grace.

So, how do you start loving yourself that way? How do you mirror God’s love in your own life?

The K.I.S.S. ~ L.E.A.R.N. to love yourself!

We are taught many things in life, but rarely do we take a look at what we need to gain in order to give.

So today, it’s time you pause and learn to love yourself as God loves you.

L – LOOK in the Mirror with Grace
Begin by seeing yourself the way God sees you, not through the harsh lens of your past failures or self-critical voices. Psalm 103:12 says God “removes our transgressions from us as far as the east is from the west.” Your mistakes don’t define you. When you look in the mirror, practice grace. Stop feeding the shame—replace it with truth.

E – EMBRACE Your Story, Scars and All
Don’t shrink from your broken parts or the chapters you wish you could rewrite. Romans 8:28 promises that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” Your story—even the ugly, painful parts—is part of that good. The apostle Paul testifies in 2 Corinthians 12:9 that God’s power is made perfect in weakness. Learn to embrace your imperfections as the soil from which strength grows.

A – ADOPT a Habit of Kindness Toward Yourself
Kindness isn’t a feeling that magically arrives; it must be cultivated until it becomes a natural part of how you treat yourself. To adopt kindness means intentionally incorporating it into your daily life—through your thoughts, your words, and your actions. Proverbs 11:17 says, “A kind person benefits themselves.” Make kindness toward yourself non-negotiable. When self-criticism creeps in, consciously replace it with encouragement rooted in God’s truth. Start replacing “I’m not enough” with truthful affirmations backed by scripture: “I am loved” (Ephesians 3:17-19), “I am chosen” (Deuteronomy 7:6), “I am wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). This isn’t about being naive or soft; it’s about strengthening your spirit by creating a habit of grace that reflects how God loves you.

R – REMIND Yourself You Are God’s Beloved
Especially on the rough days, keep a spiritual toolkit handy: memorized verses, prayers, or even a meaningful phrase like “child of God.” When the enemy whispers lies, tune your heart to God’s voice. Jesus said in John 10:27, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” Remind yourself regularly that you belong to God—and belonging means you are worthy of love, first from Him and then from yourself.

N – NURTURE Your Soul Through Community and Prayer
God designed us for connection. Loving yourself doesn’t mean going it alone. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us to encourage one another and not give up meeting together. Surround yourself with community that reflects God’s love back to you. Pray for the strength to love yourself even when it’s hard. Nurturing your soul is key to internalizing love beyond fleeting feelings.

Are You Ready?

Ready to love yourself—the real you, scars and all, beauty and ashes?

If so, stop waiting for your feelings to catch up. Love is a choice. Action. Commitment. It starts with seeing yourself through God’s eyes and putting into practice the steps above.

You won’t become your own biggest lover overnight, but every intentional step you take toward God’s love is a victory against lies and self-condemnation.

So, what’s your move today? Will you look in the mirror with grace, embrace your story, and choose kindness?

Because loving yourself isn’t selfish. It’s your foundation. And from it, everything else grows.

You’re worth it. Always have been. Now it’s time you believe it.

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“