Growing up I had my fair share of cuts and bruises. Some came on the football field, the basketball court, riding a bike, and the list goes on and on. I know I’m not the only one. We’ve all had a few nicks and bruises. But have you noticed that even though the original incident happened for many of us years ago we still have visible evidence that seemingly will never go away. Granted we can hide it with longer sleeves, longer skirts, pants, and even make up; but the scar is still there.

As reported by Right Health, once skin or organs are damaged, the body naturally wants to heal itself. Since the body cannot re-create healthy skin or tissue, it attempts to put new fibers together that are not as functional as the original tissue, but that serve as a protective, useful barrier. When this barrier is completely healed, it is known as a scar. As we further explore scars, Right Health suggests scars can never be completely removed. Many doctors advise their patients to use vitamin E supplements or creams to speed the healing process but scars never go away. Surgeries are available to remove scars.

Who we are today is a direct result of our past. We all have scars and wounds from the words and actions of others and from our own failures and mistakes. Sometimes these wounds are deeper than meets the eye. Dreams have been destroyed. Marriages have been shattered. Lives have been utterly damaged. With such a devastating and lasting effect, negativity in words or deeds can seem impossible to rebound from.

Right Health says that scars can never be removed but for the Christ-follower that’s not the case! As the Spirit of God uses the Word of God to remake us into new creations, these scars from the past become stepping stones to spiritual maturity. Embrace these ten principles from God’s word, allow Him to rebuild your battered self-esteem and ultimately destroy your scars.

10. I am created

For we are God’s workmanship. Ephesians 2:10

9. I am chosen

For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you…1 Timothy 1:4

8. I am protected

Protect me as you would the pupil of your eye. Psalm 17:8 (NLT)

7. I am complete

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 2 Peter 1:3

6. I am victorious

In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37

5. I am called

[God] has saved us and called us to a holy life–not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace…2 Timothy 1:9

4. I am forgiven

There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1

3. I am free

Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. John 8:32

2. I am loved

I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. Jeremiah 31:3

1. I am accepted!

Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir. Galatians 4:7

Pastor J