How can we protect ourselves from a world of criticism and cruelty?

I think the answer is simple: We need to be happy with who we are.

When we’re truly confident, for the most part, bullies leave us alone. And when they do choose to put us down, their insults pour off of us like water off a duck’s back without taking anything essential from our core of self esteem.

So how can we learn to be truly confident and happy with who we are, when we have so many flaws as human beings?

This answer is simple too: We need to put our confidence in the Lord.

As He showed us so perfectly on the cross, He forgives us all our shortcomings and affirms our dignity, even with all our imperfections. He loves us unconditionally and wants the best for us. He is our strength and our protection, our fortress and our shield.

Once we realize this and trust Him at the core of our being, we can become much more resilient in the face of criticism. Even when we are hurt by the cruelty of others, the more we trust in the Lord, the more quickly we can bounce back by reminding ourselves of our inherent worth as children of the One True King.

The saints are great examples of this. They were so full of God’s love, they were able to stand strong in faith through incredible trials, never losing their personal dignity or confidence in Christ.

Prayer
Lord, help us to realize our dignity as your your beloved children. Fill us with a sense of Your strength and Your unconditional love of us, so we can be immune to the harshness of the world we live in. Fill us with an unshakable sense of self worth, so we can represent You well and glorify You with our lives always, Amen.

Related scripture
Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you He will not fail you or forsake you.”

Journalling topic
Do you have areas of vulnerability, where people are able to frequently get under your skin and hurt your feelings?  How could Christ heal that area and fortify it with strength and protection, so you can be more resilient in the face of criticism?