We’re told to love our neighbors as ourselves. There are some neighbors who are in big trouble because a lot of people hate who they are. There’s no doubt in my mind that they hate everyone else as well.

If we are supposed to love others as ourselves, then we need to love ourselves. That’s not selfish, it’s cherishing what God has created. He puts Himself in us when we receive Him as Lord. That’ an even greater reason to love our self.

Self-loathing is a real problem. It blocks you from hearing God. Any sin blocks you from hearing God to some degree. Judge not and you shall not be judged. Condemn not and you shall not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. (Luke 6:37) If you don’t forgive yourself, then you block God from forgiving you.

You know if you hate yourself. You don’t need anyone to tell you that. Forgive yourself. Say it out loud  “I forgive myself for….” Repent and ask God to forgive you, too. There isn’t anything He won’t forgive your for. Ask Him to give you His presence, His Spirit, to fill your life. Instead of hate, be filled with love. Instead of regret, be filled with hope. Instead of shame, be filled with joy.

Don’t stop until you can look at yourself in the mirror without pain or anger. If you know there is still more, then go there. Let it all go. Repent and forgive. Embrace the healing that the Holy Spirit brings and be free.

You were born for heaven not hell. If you are living in hell on earth, then it’s time to switch addresses. It’s time to live.