Mark Twain wrote, “A man cannot be comfortable without his own approval.” Like so many wise sayings, it is easy to find its roots in Scripture. Jesus said to love our neighbor as we love ourselves (Matthew 19:19). If we do not love ourselves, we cannot rightly love our neighbor. Of course, this should be based on repentance to God and the commitment to follow His way. Self-approval does not need to be full of vanity and pride; it can be a simple evaluation of where we are at a given moment, and what we have done with what we have been given.

The Bible commands us to do what we can with all of our might (Ecclesiastes 9:10). We do not have the ability to become perfect, but if we have established a way of living that is directed by sincere effort to obey God, then God knows we are striving to reach His goals for us. When a person is confident in God’s forgiveness and love, he is able to produce results, work efficiently, move forward, think more wisely and plan effectively. When you do not like yourself, you will be hit with doubts, fears, uncertainties and hindrances that prevent growth. Look in the mirror and know that there is always going to be room for improvement, but you can learn to like yourself for what you can be. Strive to be the best you can!