PSA for the Awkward
"We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them." —1 John 4:16 (NLT)
Feeling like a weirdo? Don't worry, it's not just you. It's everybody. EVERYBODY feels awkward when they're in their teens. If they don't look like it, it's because they're really good at masking it. Sometimes that feeling goes into adulthood too.
3 Things to Remember
What our sense of self worth really comes down to is a realization of three things:
- You are an amazing creation that God has made (2 Corinthians 5:17).
- It is only HIS opinion that matters (Luke 18:9-14).
- You are loved by God (John 17:23) and, through Jesus, totally forgiven for every shameful, regretful mistake (John 3:16; Romans 5:8).
There's nothing you can do (or fail to do) that will take away these facts (Galatians 2:16; Romans 6:23). That makes you pretty special. I know that sounds a little cliché. And you're right, it's easier said than done to internalize those things. But hear me out...
Confidence in Who We Are
"Do not be afraid of sudden terror or of the ruin of the wicked, when it comes, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught." —Proverbs 3:25-26
Having confidence in ourselves as wonderful creations of God can really help in the way we interact with others. Our biggest goal in social situations should be to treat others in the way Jesus does—with love, compassion, forgiveness, kindness, and all that Fruit of the Spirit stuff (Ephesians 4:29-32; Luke 6:31; John 15:12; Galatians 5:22-23).
Our goal should not be to impress any human being or gain their approval, but to treat them as Jesus would. God's opinion of you is the only one that matters, and He thinks you're worth dying for (John 3:16-17; Romans 5:8).
Take a deep breath.
You aren't as awkward as you feel. Everyone feels awkward sometimes. Maybe even a lot of times. And maybe you are a little awkward. Well, welcome to being human. Awkward is completely normal.
I totally get that it's hard to feel comfortable in your own skin all the time. But in those moments, please remember that God made you who you are (Psalm 139:13–14). He gave you the personality traits you have and allowed you to find those weird things you're interested in.
You're allowed to take up space as the unique and awesome individual you are. Everything about you was specifically designed with a good and godly purpose. And God doesn't regret making you—not in the least.
ALSO SEE:
- What is my Identity in Christ?
- What does the Bible say about confidence?
- How to Stop Worrying What Others Think
- How to Receive Compliments
- What does the Bible say about insecurity?
- How can I stop comparing myself to others?
- Is it wrong to seek approval?
- Hating Sin Doesn't Mean Hating Yourself
- How can I get over feeling rejected?
- What does the Bible say about self-worth?
- What should I do if I'm being bullied in school?
TL;DR
Having confidence in ourselves as wonderful creations of God can really help in the way we interact with others. Our biggest goal in social situations should be to treat others in the way God wants us to—with love, compassion, forgiveness, kindness, and all that Fruit of the Spirit stuff (Ephesians 4:29-32; Luke 6:31; John 15:12; Galatians 5:22-23). Our goal should not be to impress any human being or gain their approval, but to treat them as Jesus would. God's opinion of you is the only one that matters, and He thinks you're worth dying for (John 3:16-17; Romans 5:8).
Writer & Managing Editor: Catiana (Cat)
Cat is the web producer and managing editor of 412teens.org. She is known as "412teens" on the 412teens Discord. She loves audiobooks, feeding the people she cares about, and using Christmas lights to illuminate a room. When Cat is not cooking, gardening, or practicing creativity, she enjoys spending time with her two adult kids, six socially-awkward cats, and her amazing friend-amily.
