15 best Bible verses for building self-esteem

Coming out of a toxic relationship, you will have low self-esteem due to the hurt, betrayals, and failures endured during the relationship.  Reflecting on Bible verses for building self-esteem can be very powerful.

For a very long time, I had low self-esteem and believed that I wasn’t good enough. I also felt hopeless and trapped by my own doubts.  It was through this hopelessness that I chose to let God’s word into my heart.

I started reading because I wanted to find comfort in the words about love, healing, and the power of faith and hope.

It was then that I realized that I had always had low self-esteem and that this lack of belief in myself had probably contributed to my acceptance of a toxic relationship in the first place.

My heart broke when I looked back and realized the impact of my negative self-talk on my life.

It was through having faith in God and understanding the power of loving your neighbor as you love yourself that I was guided toward healing and self-acceptance.

We are often our own worst enemies as we take on the responsibility for our past hurts and traumas and ruminate on negative thoughts, resulting in low self-worth and a lack of confidence.

Let’s replace our negative self-talk with a positive conversation that will help us develop healthy self-esteem, set deserving boundaries, and provide hope for the future.

What is Self-esteem?

From a Christian perspective, your self-esteem is often viewed as an understanding of your worth that comes from knowing you were created in the image and likeness of God. 

This implies that you have intrinsic worth and dignity, not because of your accomplishments, outward appearance, or status, but simply because God loves you.

Self-esteem isn’t about pride or arrogance, as Christian teachings discourage these traits. Instead, it’s about recognizing your inherent worth as a daughter of God and respecting yourself as a result.

This understanding is supposed to be a guide, highlighting how you should treat yourself and others.

It’s about acknowledging with humility your imperfections and shortcomings, but also realizing that these do not diminish your worth in God’s eyes.

Through faith, you understand that God forgives you and continues to love you unconditionally.  So shouldn’t we do the same for ourselves?

I believe that self-esteem might involve balancing your self-worth, love, and respect for yourself and treating others with kindness.

The Impact of low self-esteem on your life

If you, as a woman, are struggling with low self-esteem, it can significantly affect your life and relationships, especially if you find yourself in toxic situations.  Let’s look at the impact of low self-esteem on your life more closely.

1. Doubt your self-worth

Low self-esteem can cause you to doubt your worth and abilities, often leading you to underestimate your value. This could make you more susceptible to entering or staying in toxic relationships. You might think you don’t deserve better or that you’re unable to find healthier relationships.

2. Accept Blame

When you have low self-esteem, it can be easy to accept blame for problems in the relationship, even when it’s not your fault.

You may find yourself apologizing constantly, even for things you didn’t do, because you believe that you are the cause of the issues. This can be a significant issue in toxic relationships, where blame-shifting and manipulation are common.

3. Fear of confrontation

Low self-esteem can also lead to a fear of confrontation. You might avoid standing up for yourself or expressing your needs out of fear that you’ll be rejected or abandoned.

This can lead to a cycle where your needs are consistently unmet and you feel unheard and undervalued.

4. Isolation

Another way low self-esteem affects your life in toxic relationships is through isolation.

You may withdraw from friends, family, or activities that you love, either because your partner discourages it, or because your low self-esteem makes you believe that you’re not worthy of these positive relationships and experiences and you lack the confidence and self-belief to participate.

5. Difficulty in recognizing your strengths

Low self-esteem can make it challenging to recognize or believe in your strengths and accomplishments, leading to feelings of inadequacy and failure.

This constant self-doubt can be draining and lead to other issues like depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems.

It’s important to remember, though, that low self-esteem can be addressed and improved over time with effort and by replacing negative self-talk with a more positive mindset. 

Recognizing the problem is a significant first step, and reaching out for support from trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional can start your journey toward healthier self-love and relationships.

Bible verses for building self-esteem are also a great support in your healing journey.

Tips on developing self-esteem

1. Recognize your worth in God’s eyes

Remember, as a Christian, you believe that you were created in the image of God. You are loved and valued by Him, not because of your accomplishments but simply because you are His child.

This knowledge can be a foundation for your self-esteem.  You are valuable and worthy. Write affirmations that resonate with you and repeat them daily.

2. Engage in prayer and meditation

Prayer can provide comfort, strength, and guidance. In times of self-doubt, you can turn to God for reassurance. Additionally, meditating on scripture can offer powerful reminders of your inherent worth and God’s unconditional love.

3. Foster spiritual self-care

This can involve you participating in church activities, studying scripture and the best Bible verses, or spending quiet time in nature appreciating God’s creation.

Such activities can bring you peace and nurture your spiritual health, which in turn can help bolster your self-esteem.  Prioritize time for yourself and engage in activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good about yourself.  

I honestly believe that the importance of self-care is often overlooked, and we allow ourselves to become exhausted and run down, resulting in daily activities becoming overwhelming.  

Self-care is an essential part of healing and rebuilding your self-esteem.

4. Set boundaries based on Christian values

Christianity teaches us to have respect for ourselves and others. This respect can guide you in setting healthy boundaries in your relationships, which is crucial for maintaining self-esteem.  

Learn to recognize your needs and assert them. Establishing healthy boundaries can help you protect your self-esteem and prevent future toxic relationships.

It’s okay to say no, and it’s important to communicate what you’re comfortable with.  Do not feel guilty about communicating your needs and boundaries.

5. Surround yourself with a supportive faith community

A supportive church community can provide you with positive relationships that affirm your worth and help you in your healing process.

Positive relationships can uplift you and provide a mirror for your own worth that you may not see for yourself.

6. Embrace God’s grace in your imperfections

Everyone falls short and makes mistakes. Yet God’s love and grace are ever-present. Remember that your worth in God’s eyes is constant, regardless of your imperfections.

Rather than criticizing yourself for your flaws and errors, try to accept them as part of being human. Work on improving your flaws, but don’t beat yourself up about them.

Self-compassion is a key component in building self-esteem.

7. Celebrate your God-given strengths and talents

Recognize and give thanks for the abilities and strengths that God has given you.

Use these talents not only for your own joy but also to serve others, as this can foster a sense of purpose and boost your self-esteem.  

No accomplishment is too small to be celebrated. This can help you build a more positive self-image.

8. Practice gratitude and mindfulness

Be present in each moment and give thanks for your blessings and God’s love. This shift in focus can help create a more positive outlook, contributing to healthier self-esteem.

Mindfulness can help you stay focused on the present rather than dwelling on past relationships or worrying about the future. Gratitude, on the other hand, can shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life.

Healing is a process, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. With faith, patience, and perseverance, you can build healthier self-esteem and recover from past toxic relationships.

You are not alone in this journey; God and His unfailing love are with you every step of the way.

Bible Verses for building self-esteem

Below is a collection of Bible verses for building self-esteem that can help you with self-love and confidence.

Reflect on your own understanding of the verses and how they can help you.

1.“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

– Romans 12:2

This verse is about changing your life by changing your habits and priorities.  It encourages us to change our mindset and the way we think so as to improve our lives and honor God. Following societal trends and norms can lead to a broken life.

2. “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

– Romans 8:37

This verse is part of a larger passage in which Paul speaks of the trials and tribulations that we may face in life.  

It highlights that despite these difficulties and hardships, through God’s love and power, we will grow stronger, develop endurance, and become more resilient.

This verse gives me such confidence that even though we have endured the pain of toxic relationships, we can and will heal and be more resilient.

3. “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.”

– Psalm 32:7

This is a statement of faith in God’s protection, deliverance, and comfort that comes from trusting in Him and the Word of God.

It can provide us with reassurance that, in times of difficulty or danger, we can and should find refuge in God.

4. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

– Psalm 34:18

The promise of God’s closeness and comfort is conveyed to those who are suffering emotionally and spiritually. It provides assurance of God’s empathy, presence, and active support during times of emotional suffering and heartbreak.

The difficulty often builds perseverance in us, and we should turn to God’s love for comfort and peace.

5. “My soul, wait in silence for God only, for my hope is from Him.”

– Psalm 62:5

Psalm 62:5 emphasizes that we should wait patiently and trustingly for God’s action or response, particularly in times of distress or uncertainty. It reminds us that God is the ultimate source of hope and deliverance.

This verse is part of a larger passage where you are encouraged to persevere in your faith despite hardships and challenges.  The verse also urges you not to lose your confidence and faith in God’s promises.

Steadfastness and trust in God’s promises will not be in vain but will lead to great spiritual rewards and steadfast love.

6. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

– Isaiah 41:10

This is a reminder that in moments of fear or uncertainty, God is always there, providing comfort and stability.  Even in unexpected or difficult circumstances, there’s no need to despair because God is there, guiding and supporting you.

7. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

– John 1:9

You are a child of God, and if you sincerely confess your sins, God, in His faithfulness and love, will forgive you and transform you.

Don’t be stuck in your past; rather, ask for forgiveness for past mistakes and move confidently forward each day in the will of God.

8. “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

– Philippians 4:13

This is a testament to the power of faith in Christ, affirming that with His strength, you can endure and navigate any circumstance you face.  

It also confirms that you can do all things through Him and that you need to have faith.  Maintain confidence in your inner self and know that you are worthy of love.

 9. “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

You are a uniquely made and incredibly loved creation of God. You are not a mistake, an accident, or a mere product of chance. A loving Creator purposefully created you.

Just as an artist takes great care in crafting each detail of their masterpiece, so too has the Lord God been intentional in creating you.

This truth should influence your self-esteem and identity, helping you see yourself through God’s eyes and motivating you to live out the purpose He has for you.

10. “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.”

– Jeremiah 7:7-8a

This verse emphasizes the blessings and benefits that come from trusting in the Lord and placing one’s confidence in Him.  

Just as a tree planted by the water is well-nourished and stable, so too are those who trust in God nourished by His everlasting love and grace.

Those who do so will be stable, nourished, and resilient.

11.“Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

– Psalm 37:4

By aligning yourself with God’s will, enjoying His presence, valuing what He values, and living in accordance with His teachings, you will find your ultimate joy and satisfaction in your relationship with God. I assure you that this will lead to the fulfillment of your deepest, God-aligned desires.

12. “I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.”

– Psalm 34:4

There is an active, two-way relationship between the seeker and God. It emphasizes the idea that God is accessible and responsive to those who seek Him.  

You will be given the strength, peace, or courage to face your fears in a time of need, or your perspective will be changed so that you are no longer afraid.

13. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

– Psalm 139:14

This speaks of a deep respect and awe for the complexity and intricacy with which God has designed each and every person.  It acknowledges that you, as an individual, are a product of God’s careful, deliberate, and wonderful creation.

It’s a recognition of your inherent worth and value in God’s eyes. This knowledge can provide a strong foundation for positive self-esteem and self-worth

14. “The most important one is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”

– Deuteronomy 6:4-5

Jesus is emphasizing the profound importance of love in the Christian faith—love for God, love for others, and your own love for yourself.

This commandment, according to Jesus, encapsulates the fundamental essence of being the children of God.

15. “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”

– Mark 12:31

The significance of love and compassion towards others is central to Christian living. How you treat others is a reflection of your love for God, and loving others as you love yourself is a practical and tangible way to live out your faith.

This also highlights the importance of loving yourself and having strong confidence in your own abilities.

Bible verses for building self-esteem are a great tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does the Bible say about self-esteem?

The Bible emphasizes the inherent worth and value of every individual as they are created in the image of God. It encourages us to love ourselves as we love our neighbors and teaches that our identity is rooted in God’s love and purpose for us.

2. How can Bible verses help boost self-esteem?

Bible verses can boost self-esteem by providing words of affirmation, comfort, and encouragement. They remind us of God’s unconditional love, the strength we can find in Him, and the hope for a better future, all of which can uplift our self-esteem.

3. Are there specific Bible verses that address low self-esteem?

Yes, there are several Bible verses that directly address issues related to low self-esteem. Some examples include Psalm 139:14 (“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made”).

4. How can I incorporate these verses into my daily life to combat low self-esteem?

To incorporate these verses into your daily life, you can start by memorizing and reciting them regularly. You can also create affirmations based on these verses, journal your thoughts and feelings, or join a Bible study group for deeper exploration and support.

5. Are there any other resources or practices that can complement the use of these Bible verses for improving self-esteem?

Yes. Along with using Bible verses, consider practices like mindfulness meditation, seeking counseling or therapy, reading self-help books, and building a strong support network within your faith community. These resources and practices can complement the Bible verses in your journey toward improved self-esteem.

Join our Facebook group

It’s clear that understanding and embracing our inherent worth is integral to fostering healthy self-esteem. Seeing ourselves through the lens of God’s love and purpose can profoundly transform our self-perception.

The good news is that the teachings in the Bible serve as a way of affirming and inspiring this journey. The Christian faith offers a paradigm where each individual is seen as a unique, purposefully designed masterpiece. 

Use this collection of Bible verses to build self-esteem.

This view challenges any negative self-perception and calls us to see ourselves as valuable and deeply loved by the heavenly Father.

Moreover, the Bible’s encouragement to love our neighbors as we love ourselves highlights the importance of a healthy regard for our own worth. It suggests that as we cultivate a positive self-view, we’re not only enriching our own lives but also better positioning ourselves to positively impact the lives of others.

In the face of life’s trials or toxic relationships, the Bible offers hope and restoration. 

It assures us that we’re not alone in our struggles and that, with faith, we can overcome. It reinforces the idea that our value is not determined by external circumstances, but by our divine creation.

In essence, the Bible can play a significant role in fostering healthy self-esteem. It serves as a reminder of our worth, divine purpose, and the transformative power of love—love for God, love for self, and love for others.

As we internalize these truths, we become better equipped to navigate life’s challenges, recover from toxic relationships, and live a more fulfilled and impactful life.