People who suffer with low self-esteem don’t handle rejection well. They can lash out with extreme hostility.

Luke 9:53-55 (NIV) but the people there did not welcome Him, because He was heading for Jerusalem. When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” But Jesus turned and rebuked them.

To destroy an entire city just because they didn’t welcome you is a little harsh. But, Jesus still found great value in them.

As a matter of fact, Jesus combined them with Peter to form a special threesome that got special training privileges. You may not think you qualify, but don’t let your personal evaluation affect your willingness to join Jesus in His worldwide Christian movement. Like James and John, the Holy Spirit may give you a nickname after one of your insecure reactions.

Mark 3:17 (NIV) James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them He gave the name Boanerges, which means Sons of Thunder).

Just don’t let it hurt your feelings. It is all being done in love.