There are a lot of theories and philosophies as to how to gain self confidence. I personally don’t think any of them are worth a penny. I also don’t think self confidence is worth a lick of contemplation.
Why on earth would I place confidence in myself when I know that I do so many things which are illogical, emotional and just plain wrong?
In the Bible, confidence is described as quietness and assurance.
So wait a minute there, confidence is not the ability to go on a speaking tour? Nope, nor is it the ability to hold multitudes in the palm of your hand by writing the greatest American novel. Neither is it being so good at your job and or skill that you rise to the top.
But that is not the zinger, the zinger is that the way to attain confidence, according to the almighty Father, is not what we would imagine.
Well, I imagine the way to build confidence is to be popular, successful and innovative right?
Not so much…
The way to attain quietness and assurance, which equals confidence, is through righteousness. In Isaiah 32:17 the Lord’s Word says, “The work of righteousness will be peace, and the effect of righteousness; quietness and assurance forever.”
Now I know for one I am not righteous. I try, but many times I fail in so many ways it is ridiculous. That is why I must claim the blood of Jesus over my sins but I am constantly striving to live a life which is free of the obstacles of sin.
I plead with God to show me the areas of my heart which I have locked Him out of. I ask Him to sweep clean the crevices of bitterness and unforgiveness. I beg Him to draw the drapes aside and let the brilliance of truth from the Holy Spirit shine into my soul, illuminating it to be a place which He can call home.
For you see, it is sin which makes us insecure, for it separates us from the love of God. If we seek to live a life which is righteous, we yearn for a life full of quietness and assurance, success does not even enter the equation.
When I think of confidence I think of people who are successful, articulate and popular. Isn’t it amazing that God thinks of confidence as people who are quiet and righteous?
