DIAGNOSIS

When I was a reading specialist I performed many tests on students.  These tests or screenings would give you a diagnosis of where the child’s reading level fell.  Not very many but some I would refer to a diagnostic clinic if I felt there was some other issue present.    

You may have had a diagnosis during your lifetime.  It may be a good one or it may be a scary one.  You may know what to do or you may be waiting to find out what you need to do.  The specialist will examine or screen your symptoms and them determine the nature of your problem. 

You may have a diagnosis of yourself.  You may feel useless, worthless or unloved.  This diagnosis usually came from the input or opinion of others.  Many of you have lived a life locked in chains from the views you accepted from others.  So how do you break the chains and change your diagnosis?

In the book “LIES WOMEN BELIEVE” by Nancy Leigh Demoss, on page 69 Nancy tells us that, “We need to learn to love ourselves.”  I know you are thinking easier said than done when given a diagnosis of worthlessness.  Nancy shares an acronym for “LOVE YOURSLEF,” that she found in a religious catalog. 

L          let go of the should in your life

O         Open up to the miracle of you

V          value your uniqueness

E          explore your dreams and passions

Y          yield to life-go with the flow

O         obey the voice of your spirit

U         unwind-get cozy and comfy

R          renew yourself-body and soul

S          surround yourself with caring people

E          express yourself-be true to you

L          linger longer at what you enjoy

F          feel God’s special love for you

During this Lenten season remember to love yourself as Christ loves you.  He made the ultimate sacrifice so that we will live and be forgiven.  He doesn’t want us to feel worthless and unloved.  You were made to do great things.  Go to Him, ask Him to lead you to that which is His purpose for you and get busy.  The best diagnosis is yet to come.