Day 7: Celebrate the Image of God in You

The idea of seeing ourselves through God's lens pervades every area of our leadership journey. The Bible says, “God created human beings in his own image” (Genesis 1:27 NLT). David reflected with awe, “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb…Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it” (Psalm 139:13-14 NLT).

We cannot lead with clarity, process emotions, be purposefully transparent, or be authentic servants if we do not internalize this truth: You were not a mistake. You were made on purpose, for a purpose. Understanding and internalizing this truth is the beginning of becoming an effective, upside-down leader like Jesus. Unfortunately, society rarely misses a chance to dissuade you from this belief. The result? A lifelong bout with insecurity. I've been there, wearing the mask of discomfort.

A Personal Story: The Mask of Insecurity

I recently watched an old video of myself and cringed—not at the footage but at the feelings behind it. It was from my sister’s wedding. Everyone in the limo was smiling, laughing, and celebrating. When the camera panned to me, I covered my face, hiding myself. You might think it was a joke, but I remember exactly how I felt at that moment: insignificant.

Despite encouragement from my family, the teasing about my weight, the gap in my teeth, and even my name were louder in my mind. I started to identify with the “flawed” version of myself. Insecurity led to rule-breaking, angry outbursts, and misbehavior at school—desperate attempts to feel like I belonged somewhere, even temporarily.

Insecurity Grows with Us—Unless We Confront It

As adults, insecurity often shows up in more sophisticated ways. Leaders who feel insecure might:

• Try to be liked by everyone to avoid rejection.
• Hoard information to stay in control.
• Overreact to criticism or fear that others are “after” their job.
• Blame others for failures they should own.

Sound familiar?

It’s time to be free!

How to See Yourself Through God’s Lens

Self-Reflection: Look Inward

• Purpose: Believe that you were created on purpose, for a purpose.
• Values: Identify guiding principles like integrity, compassion, and courage. These keep you grounded in truth.
• Strengths & Weaknesses: Write them down. Be honest but gracious with yourself.
• Defining Moments: Reflect on life events that shaped your values and worldview. What do they reveal about how God wired you?

Feedback from Others: Look Outward

• Inner Circle: Ask trusted friends or family what they see in you.
• Mentors or Colleagues: Their outside perspective can highlight your blind spots or strengths you overlook.
• Assessments: Tools like StrengthsFinder or DISC can reveal traits God placed in you for impact.

Pro Tip: Feedback is a tool, not a verdict. Use it to grow, not define your worth.

Journaling: Track the Journey

• Reflect on moments of insecurity. What triggered them? What was your response? What truth can replace the lie?

Rediscover Your Passions

• What energizes you? Your purpose is often hidden in what excites you. Here's the key: refrain from confusing distractions or coping mechanisms with true passion.

Lead from Confidence, Not Insecurity

You stop chasing success and start walking purposefully when you know who you are. That’s when you become the kind of leader others want to follow—steady, intentional, and unshaken.

You are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are custom-built by God with a divine assignment no one else can fulfill!

Let His voice be louder than the criticism, comparison, and pressure. You weren’t created to hide. You were created to lead!