Self-love is often misunderstood as something selfish or self-centered, but in reality, it’s about appreciating the unique person God created each of us to be. The Bible is full of verses that encourage us to see ourselves as God sees us—valuable, worthy of love, and designed with a purpose.
In this article, I’m going to share 50 Bible verses about self-love; even though the Bible did not directly say much about self-love, there are bible verses that indirectly talk about it. Each with a personal reflection on how these words of scripture inspire and guide me in embracing who I am.
My handpicked 50 Bible Verses About Self-love
- Psalm 139:13-14 NIV
- Mark 12:31 NIV
- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV
- Ephesians 2:10 NIV
- Proverbs 19:8 NIV
- Matthew 22:39 NIV
- Song of Solomon 4:7 NIV
- Romans 5:8 NIV
- 1 John 4:19 NIV
- Galatians 2:20 NIV
- 1 Peter 3:3-4 NIV
- Psalm 107:1 NIV
- Isaiah 43:4 NIV
- Philippians 4:8 NIV
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV
- Romans 8:38-39 NIV
- Zephaniah 3:17 NIV
- Ephesians 3:17-19 NIV
- Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
- John 15:9 NIV
- Psalm 139:1-2 NIV
- Matthew 10:30-31 NIV
- Isaiah 49:15-16 NIV
- Romans 8:1 NIV
- Romans 12:2 NIV
- Luke 12:7 NIV
- Colossians 3:12-14 NIV
- James 1:17 NIV
- Psalm 46:5 NIV
- Matthew 10:31 NIV
- Philippians 1:6 NIV
- Isaiah 40:31 NIV
- John 3:16 NIV
- 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV
- Deuteronomy 7:6 NIV
- Psalm 18:19 NIV
- Isaiah 54:10 NIV
- Psalm 27:10 NIV
- 1 John 3:1 NIV
- Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
- Psalm 31:7 NIV
- Romans 15:13 NIV
- Ephesians 1:4-5 NIV
- Psalm 119:76 NIV
- Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV
- Isaiah 43:1 NIV
- Psalm 63:3 NIV
- 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV
- 1 Peter 2:9 NIV
1. Psalm 139:13-14 NIV
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This is one of my favorite verses. Whenever I doubt my worth, I come back to these words. They remind me that I am intentionally created, fearfully and wonderfully made by a loving God. It’s a powerful affirmation of self-worth and a call to love myself as I am.
2. Ephesians 2:10 NIV
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
I love this verse because it reassures me that I am not just an accident or a random creation. I am God’s handiwork, designed with a purpose. Embracing self-love means recognizing this truth and living in a way that reflects the value God has placed on me.
3. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
This verse always challenges me to think about how I treat myself. If my body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, then self-love isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a responsibility. It’s about taking care of myself in a way that honors God.
4. Matthew 22:39 NIV
“And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
This verse is often quoted, but I think we sometimes miss the part about loving ourselves. Jesus ties the love for others to the love we have for ourselves. It’s a reminder that self-love is foundational to how we love and treat others.
5. Song of Solomon 4:7 NIV
“You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you.”
Whenever I feel insecure or doubtful about my appearance, this verse lifts me up. It’s a beautiful expression of God’s view of us—flawless and altogether beautiful. It encourages me to see myself through God’s eyes and to embrace self-love without hesitation.
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6. Proverbs 19:8 NIV
“The one who gets wisdom loves life; the one who cherishes understanding will soon prosper.”
This verse reminds me that loving life, including myself, is tied to seeking wisdom and understanding. When I invest in my growth, it’s an act of self-love that leads to true prosperity.
7. 1 John 4:19 NIV
“We love because he first loved us.”
This verse is a gentle reminder that my ability to love, including self-love, comes from God’s love for me. Knowing I am loved by Him allows me to love myself freely and without fear.
8. Mark 12:31 NIV
“The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
Here, Jesus highlights the importance of self-love as a basis for loving others. If I don’t love myself, how can I truly love my neighbor? This verse challenges me to cultivate self-love as a part of my spiritual walk.
9. Galatians 2:20 NIV
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
This verse speaks to the deep, transformative love that Christ has for me. When I think about self-love, I remember that Christ’s love for me is so strong that He gave Himself for me. That realization strengthens my commitment to loving myself.
10. Jeremiah 31:3 NIV
“The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.'”
Whenever I doubt my worth, this verse reassures me that God’s love for me is everlasting. His unfailing kindness is a constant reminder to love myself as He loves me.
11. Romans 5:8 NIV
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
This verse always humbles me. It reminds me that God’s love for me isn’t based on my perfection but on His grace. Knowing this, I’m encouraged to love myself even when I fall short.
12. Philippians 4:13 NIV
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Whenever I face challenges, this verse empowers me. It reminds me that self-love includes recognizing my strengths and abilities, knowing that they come from God.
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13. Isaiah 43:4 NIV
“Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life.”
I find this verse incredibly comforting. It’s a powerful reminder that I am precious and honored in God’s sight. This knowledge fuels my self-love, helping me see my true worth.
14. Romans 8:37-39 NIV
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
These verses remind me that nothing can separate me from God’s love. This eternal bond gives me the confidence to love myself deeply, knowing that I am always connected to His love.
15. Ephesians 5:29 NIV
“After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church.”
This verse speaks to the importance of self-care as an act of self-love. If I am to love myself, I must care for my body and soul just as Christ cares for the church.
16. Psalm 23:1-3 NIV
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.”
I love how this psalm highlights God’s provision and care. It reminds me that self-love is also about allowing God to lead me to rest and refreshment, trusting that He knows what I need.
17. 1 Peter 5:7 NIV
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Whenever I feel overwhelmed, this verse helps me to remember that God cares deeply for me. It encourages me to love myself by releasing my worries to Him, knowing that I am loved and cared for.
18. Zephaniah 3:17 NIV
“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
This verse is a beautiful reminder that God delights in me. When I think about self-love, I imagine God rejoicing over me with singing, and that fills my heart with joy.
19. Psalm 34:18 NIV
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
During tough times, this verse reassures me that God is near, even when I feel broken. It encourages me to love myself through the hard moments, knowing that God is there to heal and restore.
20. Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
These words of Jesus remind me that self-love includes seeking rest and comfort in Him. It’s a gentle invitation to lay down my burdens and find peace in His presence.
21. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NIV
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
This verse encourages me to embrace my weaknesses as part of self-love. It’s a reminder that God’s grace is enough and that His power is strongest in my weakest moments.
22. Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
When I’m feeling uncertain, this verse reminds me to trust God with my whole heart. It’s an act of self-love to surrender my worries and let Him guide me.
23. 1 Samuel 16:7 NIV
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'”
This verse helps me remember that true self-love isn’t about how I look on the outside but about the condition of my heart. It’s a call to focus on inner beauty, the kind that God values most.
24. Isaiah 41:10 NIV
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Whenever I feel afraid or insecure, this verse gives me strength. It reminds me that self-love is also about trusting God to be my support and strength in times of need.
25. John 15:9 NIV
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.”
This verse is a simple yet profound reminder to stay rooted in God’s love. When I remain in His love, it becomes easier to love myself as well.
26. Romans 12:2 NIV
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
I find this verse powerful because it emphasizes the importance of renewing my mind. Self-love involves letting go of the world’s standards and embracing the transformation that comes from aligning my thoughts with God’s will.
27. Luke 12:7 NIV
“Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
This verse always makes me feel valued. It’s a beautiful reminder that God knows me intimately and considers me incredibly valuable. Understanding my worth in God’s eyes helps me to truly love myself.
28. Colossians 3:12-14 NIV
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
These verses remind me that self-love is also about embodying the virtues God has called me to. When I choose compassion, kindness, and love, I’m aligning myself with God’s design for my life.
29. James 1:17 NIV
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
This verse encourages me to see myself as a good and perfect gift from God. It’s a reminder that self-love is about recognizing the goodness within me, a reflection of God’s unchanging nature.
30. Psalm 46:5 NIV
“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.”
I love the strength this verse gives me. It’s a powerful reminder that with God within me, I am strong and unshakeable. Embracing this truth is a deep act of self-love.
31. Matthew 10:31 NIV
“So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
Just like in Luke, this verse from Matthew reassures me of my worth. It’s a comforting reminder that I am precious to God, and that knowledge fuels my self-love.
32. Philippians 1:6 NIV
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
This verse encourages me to trust that God is continually working in me. Loving myself means believing that I am a work in progress, and God’s not finished with me yet.
33. Isaiah 40:31 NIV
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
I find this verse uplifting, especially in moments of exhaustion. It reminds me that self-love includes trusting God to renew my strength and lift me up when I feel weak.
34. John 3:16 NIV
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
This is perhaps one of the most well-known verses, and it reminds me of the depth of God’s love for me. Knowing that God loves me enough to give His Son helps me to see the importance of loving myself as well.
35. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
These verses define what love is, and I believe they also apply to how I should love myself. Self-love means being patient and kind to myself, forgiving my mistakes, and always seeking to grow.
36. Deuteronomy 7:6 NIV
“For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.”
This verse reminds me that I am treasured by God. It’s a beautiful affirmation of my worth and a strong foundation for self-love.
37. Psalm 18:19 NIV
“He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.”
Knowing that God delights in me gives me a sense of security and love. It’s a reminder that I am cherished, and that understanding helps me to love myself.
38. Isaiah 54:10 NIV
“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.”
This verse reassures me of God’s unshakable love. No matter what happens, His love remains, and that gives me the confidence to love myself through all circumstances.
39. Psalm 27:10 NIV
“Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”
This verse speaks to the unconditional love God has for me. Even if others fail me, God’s love never does, and that truth encourages me to keep loving myself.
40. 1 John 3:1 NIV
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!”
This verse fills me with awe. Being called a child of God is the highest affirmation of my worth, and it encourages me to embrace self-love fully.
41. Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Knowing that God has good plans for my life helps me to love and trust myself more. It’s a reminder that self-love includes believing in the good future God has in store for me.
42. Psalm 31:7 NIV
“I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul.”
This verse reminds me that God sees my struggles and still loves me deeply. That knowledge helps me to be kinder and more loving to myself during tough times.
43. Romans 15:13 NIV
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
I love this verse because it speaks to the joy and peace that come from trusting God. Loving myself means opening my heart to this joy and peace, allowing it to fill and overflow in my life.
44. Ephesians 1:4-5 NIV
“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.”
This verse reminds me that I was chosen by God, long before I was even born. It’s a powerful affirmation of my value and a strong foundation for self-love.
45. Psalm 119:76 NIV
“May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.”
I find comfort in knowing that God’s unfailing love is always there for me. This verse encourages me to lean into that love, especially when I’m in need of comfort and reassurance.
46. Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
These verses are a reminder of God’s constant compassion and faithfulness. Every new day is a chance to embrace self-love, knowing that God’s love for me is renewed each morning.
47. Isaiah 43:1 NIV
“But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.'”
This verse reassures me that I belong to God. It’s a comforting thought, and it reminds me to love myself as someone who is redeemed and deeply valued by the Creator.
48. Psalm 63:3 NIV
“Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.”
This verse speaks to the incomparable nature of God’s love. It’s a reminder that His love is the foundation of my life, and it encourages me to glorify Him by loving myself as well.
49. 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
I love how this verse empowers me. It’s a reminder that self-love includes embracing the power, love, and self-discipline that God has given me, and not living in fear.
50. 1 Peter 2:9 NIV
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
This verse is a powerful affirmation of my identity in Christ. Knowing that I am chosen and special to God helps me to see myself through His eyes and love myself accordingly.
Bible Verses for Self Love Wrap Up
In conclusion, these verses are a reminder that we should love ourselves no matter what, don’t wait to be loved by other persons!.