Deep down, I think we all secretly wonder how others see us.
I know I do.
Do these external perceptions line up with the way we see ourselves?
We may not realize it, but over course of our lives, we have thousands of interactions with others and our self-perception quietly influences every encounter and relationship.
If your self-perception is rooted in insecurity, you might find yourself seeking validation from others, reading too deeply into their words, or hesitating to show up as your truest, most authentic self.
But when you understand your worth and see yourself the way God sees you, you have a confidence rooted in peace rather than performance.
Have you ever heard the saying confidence is attractive?
I’m not talking about the romantic type of confidence (although it could be that, too) but rather a deep sense of knowing who you are and operating from that place.
Just like a mirror, your self perception reflects how you believe you deserve to be treated. When you value yourself, you set healthier boundaries, communicate more openly, and attract people who respect and appreciate you.
“As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” – Proverbs 23:7 (KJV)
Your self-view also affects how you treat others. When you operate from a secure sense of identity, you become less defensive and more compassionate. You’re able to celebrate others without feeling threatened because you understand their light doesn’t dim yours.
I remember how awful I used to treat others when I was a teenager. I was easily jealous, defensive, and rude. I was definitely operating from a place of insecurity.
In my adult years, it was comparison and envy. Oftentimes, when I saw others relishing in the joys and successes of their lives- fun travels, family gatherings, business growth— you name it, I was too busy being a hater to be happy for them. Somehow, I thought I was more deserving than they were. Lame.
Thankfully, I’ve grown. Now, I genuinely celebrate the blessings of others and even go so far as to thank God for His favor over them.
I joke but since I am somewhat travel deprived, I’ve said if I don’t get the chance to travel during my lifetime, I will see paradise when I get to heaven. But Lord, please let me travel!!
As you grow in your understanding of who you are in Christ, you begin to interact with the world from a place of wholeness, not lack. You love more freely, forgive more easily, and connect more deeply because you know who and whose you are.
So, who are you?
Your first thought might be the roles or accomplishments you have: husband/wife, mom/dad, job title, dog-lover, foodie, athlete, artist, etc.
But none of these speak to the essence of who you are.
To truly understand who you are, you have to go beneath the layers — past what you do, what you own, and what others say about you.
You have to pause long enough to look inward and ask, “Who did God create me to be at my core?”
Our identity isn’t something we create; it’s something we discover. It’s already been woven into your DNA by the One who made you.
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” – Psalm 139:13 (NIV)
Every cell, every spark of your personality was designed with purpose and intention.
But because we live in a world of constant hype and comparisons, we can easily lose touch with this truth.
When your identity is rooted in something eternal — in who God says you are — you become unshakeable.
“You are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” – Ephesians 2:10 (NLT)
Knowing who you are changes how you show up in the world — in your relationships, your work, and your purpose.
So, how do you go about learning more about yourself?
You can start by asking God deep questions.
Listen to what stirs your heart.
Notice what brings you life.
Here are a few questions to ask:
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“Lord, how do You see me?”
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“What parts of myself have I forgotten or hidden that You want to bring to light?”
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“What unique gifts and qualities did You place in me for a purpose?”
Uncovering the essence of who you are is only found in quiet time with God, with yourself, and with the truth of how you were made.
God says the following about you:
1 Peter 2:9 – “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…”
Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…”
Psalm 139:14 – “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made…”
You are chosen. You are royal. You are God’s special possession.
Once you understand who you really are, your light will shine from the inside out and you will naturally attract all that which was always meant for you.
I’m so glad you’re here and I’m so glad you’re you.
Nothing but love,
Barbara
Pursu Agency