Your adornment must not be merely external–braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. 1 Peter 3:3-4

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

This series is for women to share what they are learning to spiritually clothe themselves with, how they choose to adorn their heart, and what they choose to put on because of their desire to be precious in God’s sight.

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Confidence.

A quick google search resulted in a couple of definitions. The first: “A feeling of self-assurance arising from one’s appreciation of one’s own abilities or qualities.”

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Proverbs 139:14

I am a chronic sufferer of low self-esteem. I’ve struggled with body image issues for as long as I can remember-even before my awkward teenage years-due to a congenital cosmetic/medical condition that also required several surgeries and hospitalizations throughout my childhood and early teenage years [Let’s not forget my tree-like figure, mile long legs, and hobbit feet, but that’s beside the point :)]. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think I would be in the career I am now if it weren’t for those experiences, but boy, did it do a number on my self-esteem.

I knew and was constantly told that I wasn’t defined by these issues, by what the world thought of me, by my lack of the boyfriend that I wanted so badly to have. I had people constantly speaking the truth into me that my self-worth and beauty are found in Jesus and that I was made in His image.

These issues really didn’t start to improve until I met my husband, Caleb. HE didn’t fix it, but he pointed me to Jesus even more. He constantly pursued me and made me feel beautiful (and still does) and the Lord began healing my heart from the pain that I had felt for so long. I still wouldn’t call myself “confident” when it comes to physical appearance, but it’s something I work towards daily.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” Proverbs 31:25

Another definition of confidence: “The feeling or belief that one can rely on someone or something; firm trust.”

One of the other things I struggle with (I’m a hot mess, let’s just be honest) is anxiety. I started having panic attacks before I went off to college, and it is a battle I still fight (with the help of a little medication and a whole lot of Jesus) on a daily basis. When you really think about it… as a follower of Jesus, worry is not fully trusting in the Lord to lead and control your life. The Bible is filled with promises that God will provide every need, but we must have CONFIDENCE in that.

Easier said than done, right? Of course. It’s a daily, conscious decision to trust Him. To rest in HIS promises. To be CONFIDENT in Him. He is good, and He is enough.

“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.” Psalm 46:5