In the struggle with self-hatred, we obviously do not like what we see. It is uncomfortable, if not intolerable, to confront our true selves, and so, like runaway slaves, we either flee our own reality or manufacture a false self, which is mostly admirable, mildly prepossessing, and superficially happy.
Defense mechanisms become useful allies here. These unconscious ploys warp our perception of reality and protect us from fear, loss, and emotional pain. Through the smoke screen of rationalization, projection, displacement, insulation, intellectualization, and generalization, we remain on the merry-go-round of denial and dishonesty. Those of us who have played the game wear a thousand masks to disguise the face of fear.
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18
Brennan Manning, Reflections for Ragamuffins.
Where have you seen God's grace in your life today?