Do you experience a lack of self-confidence? A lot of people do. Some folks try to cover it up by acting tough. Others try to compensate by showing off or by wearing flashy clothes.

Why is it that people like this, people who have a poor self-image, are too proud to turn to God? Perhaps it’s because these same folks would rather be accepted by their peers. And let’s face it, God isn’t altogether popular. And so, in an effort to gain some self-esteem, young people and adults go along with the crowd. Yes, they go along even if the crowd pushes them into illicit sex, shooting drugs, stealing, and murder. Peer pressure is huge.

Yet the Bible promises, “God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5). You see, following your peers and committing acts of sin can only lead to guilt. You damage your self-esteem. And God will oppose you if you refuse to turn to Him for help. On the other hand, when you humbly turn to God, He gives you grace. In other words, He gives you the inner strength and the inner confidence you need.

And so, confess your sins to God. Trust in Christ as the One who paid the penalty for your sins. Ask God to give you that inner strength you need.