How we view ourselves: part 2

The bible teaches that we belong to God and to each other. The bible teaches that becoming a Christian is basically a submission of ourselves to God and each other, Eph. 5:21 and James 4:6. None of us lives to ourselves alone. When a Christian is willing to consistently "lose themselves" for the sake of others, it builds personal worth and dignity, ultimately resulting in our finding "life" Mark 10. Conversely, when an individual is self oriented, self occupied and self concerned, the abundant life Jesus promised is not possible.
We must have a clear, honest and objective view of our strengths and weaknesses. This comes from both personal examination and from shared observations of those closest to us. Rom. 12:5, We must see ourselves with sober judgement. However we must be careful not to compare ourselves with ourselves. 2 Cor. 10:12. Scripture teaches us to imitate and model ourselves after people who are stronger and have proven themselves effective 1 Thes 5:12.
We must see ourselves as people with a purpose. We do have a purpose, a reason for existence! Contrary to worldly thought, we are not here for our own enjoyment and pleasure-- but to serve God and others. When we fully comprehend the opportunity which all Christians have to effect others for eternity, we will develope a personal confidence and assurance of our own worth, which those living by the world's standards could never attain.
Far too many Christians are plagued by feelings of inadequancy, self doubt and spiritual weakness. We are mistaken if we attempt to let the wisdom of this world convince us to "be good to outselves" or to just "accept ourselves" the way we are. Jesus came to redeem us from an empty way of life, to give us the power and the resources to become "like God," and he expects us to share our redemption with those about us! It is imperative that Christians have healthy, Biblical attitudes concerning themselves. These attitudes must not be the result of self-delusion or the acceptance of worldly principles but the result of our remaining in Christ and His word. Our pattern for spiritual living has to be Christ Centered and those who are striving to live that life according to God's will. Not those in the world that encourage pleasure at all cost and especially the Hollywood crowd who flaunt that sinful life style. This creates an unteachable spirit and severely hinders spiritual developement.