Self-Abasement

In my research of "self" & the studying of the destruction of depending on self instead of God, one of the most interesting words I have come across is self-abasement. The definition is a degradation or humiliation of oneself, especially because of feelings of guilt or inferiority. Voluntary self-punishment or humiliation in order to atone for some real or imagined wrongdoing. Self-abasement might have a religious aspect for those seeking humility before God.

Cutting is an example of self-abasement. I have never heard the likes of such a thing until the last several years. It's like it has become a "fad" of sorts. Not downplaying it whatsoever because it's very serious. But, it just seems to be a fad like Nike was popular for years. Choking is another fad among the young people. It's choking yourself until you pass out & get a high. Both of these can kill you. Choking isn't self-abasement however. It's not done for the same reasons as cutting.

Cutting is the habit of self-mutilation with incisions, burns, or scratches. It's not a suicide attempt. They just want the emotional pain to go away. They have usually suffered from physical abuse or low "self-esteem". They cut to punish themselves for perceived mistakes to avoid problems & to convey feelings they cannot express verbally. 

We are losing a generation because they no longer have any role models to show them the way. In an age of sexual confusion, divorce, abortion as a means of birth control, same-sex marriage, adultery, drug abuse, alcoholism, pain management in the form of prescription drugs, these kids have lost their way. They actually never had a way because no one has shown them the way, including myself. We are so caught up in ourselves that we leave them to raise themselves just taking for granted they will figure it out sooner or later. 

Self-abasement or mutilation can be habit forming but the relief it gives is only temporary. It's like their best friend, so to speak. It's the only thing in life they have control over. 

This isn't one of those powerful discussions but I just wanted to share just a result of relying on "self".

Leviticus 19:28 Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.