Group Therapy (24) Self Esteem while disrespecting self

This act of self-love is a gift, not a special status that has to
be earned. This second approach to self-esteem is quite
consistent with Christian theology. Christianity emphasizes that
all human beings are lovable in the eyes of God and that we
cannot earn our way to heaven through good works. This idea is
stated clearly in the New Testament. Ephesians 2:8-9: For by
grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourself: it is
the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Romans
5:8: But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we
were yet sinners, Christ died for us. The concept of grace
suggests that we cannot gain genuine self-esteem through our
achievements, intelligence, or good works. We cannot gain genuine
self-esteem by being loved or popular. We declare self-esteem,
and love ourselves in spite of our shortcomings and not because
of our accomplishments. The notion of faith implies that you
cannot demonstrate or prove that you are basically acceptable or
lovable. In fact, you can never prove that any human being is
worthwhile or worthless. You can only declare your own dignity as
an act of faith. Genuine self-esteem cannot be earned or taken
away.