Ignorance and Self-Image

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.  Hosea 4:6

People are often defeated because they have the incorrect self-image.  Their self-image is based on what Hollywood has said they should be, the insults of those around them, or what others have said that they are.  We have stated that the incorrect self-image can be the byproduct of persecution or low self-esteem.  It can also be the result of ignorance.  Ignorance here does not have a negative connotation but simply means lack of knowledge.  We are who God says that we are and not what someone else says.  That is the reason the Bible says to "be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2).   We are not to be conformed to the expectations of others but to who God has said that we are in His Word.  Regardless of the fact that others may have called you stupid, fat, useless, ugly, or any other demeaning name it does not matter.  All that matters is what God says.  God says that you are wonderfully made (Psalms 139:14), that you are strong (Joel 3:10), that you have a good future (Jeremiah 29:11), and that you can do all things through Christ which strengths you (Philippians 4:13).  Meditate on what God has said about you in His Word and disregard anything else contrary to what He has said.  When you receive the proper knowledge of who God says that you are, you will have the proper self-image and the promises and victory of God are sure to manifest in your life!