SELFHOOD Part 2

Ms. Afriyah
In the first article we discussed what Selfhood is, today we want to go a bit further to discuss -
How To Build a Strong Selfhood.
Building a strong selfhood involves developing the inner qualities that make us who we truly are in Christ. This process takes time, worship, prayer, bible study, and reflection. Here are some key steps to help us grow in our understanding of selfhood:
A. Know Who You Are in Christ
God created you with a purpose (Ephesians 2:10). You are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Your identity is rooted in who you are in Christ, not in what others say about you, or how you look. Who you are in Christ is an amazing, unstoppable, loving, unrivalled individual, sent here to earth to be the solution to a unique problem only you can solve.
Biblical Reference:
“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2:10)
B. Guard Your Heart
Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to guard our hearts, as everything we do flows from it. What we allow into our hearts—whether through media, relationships, or our own thoughts—shapes who we become.
C. Be Mindful of Your Thoughts
The Bible tells us that our thoughts are important, as they shape our actions. A positive, godly mind-set can help strengthen our selfhood and lead to good choices. It is very important that we give our attention to only things that edify us, build us, and inspire us. In the age of information and distraction that we live in, it’s very important to monitor the content that we daily consume. It can lead us to a life filled with fear and anxiety and deception, so filling our thoughts with what God teaches us through Scripture is vital.
Biblical Reference:
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8, NIV)
D. Practice Self-Reflection
Take time regularly to reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and actions. Ask yourself questions like:
- What am I thinking about?
- What is motivating my actions?
- How am I feeling, and why?
- How am I RESPONDING to situations?
Reflection, both on our actions, and The Word of God is vital to grow our selfhood.
Embracing HOW You Are in Christ
Your selfhood is not defined by your appearance, your grades, or what others think of you. It is defined by the condition of your heart and how you live according to God’s purpose for your life. Remember, God looks at the heart, and it’s your heart that shapes your everyday life; as well as your future.
As you grow in your understanding of who and HOW you are, keep these truths in mind:
- You are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).
- You are unique and very valuable and sent here for a purpose only you can fulfil. .” (Ephesians 2:10)
- God sees your heart (1 Samuel 16:7).
- Guard your heart (Proverbs 4:23).
- Think on good things (Philippians 4:8).
In doing so, you will grow into (be transformed into) the Christ-like person Yahweh created you to be while fulfilling your purpose, contributing beneficially to society and living a great life that honours Him.