Biblical Answer

The Dignity of Human Beings

Dignity is a concept that is often associated with the inherent worth and value of human beings. However, dignity can be fragile and easily compromised when we are dependent on others. In fact, the author suggests that dignity is "utterly dependent on my desire to think of myself as possessing it, and similarly contingent, for all practical purposes, on others autonomously agreeing with me." This means that our sense of dignity is not fixed, but rather it is subject to the opinions and approval of others.

The Importance of Self-Control

One way to maintain our dignity is to exercise self-control. This means being able to say "no" to things that are not good for us, and to prioritize what is truly important. As the author notes, "saying 'no' is a vital part of self-control." When we are unable to say "no" to things that are not good for us, we can become servants to our desires and lose sight of what is truly important. Self-control is essential for maintaining our dignity, as it allows us to make choices that are in line with our values and principles.

The Role of God in Maintaining Dignity

Ultimately, our dignity is not something that we can maintain on our own. It requires a deeper sense of self-worth and value that comes from a relationship with God. As the author notes, "the ultimate lover of your soul" is the one who can give us the freedom and joy that we need to live a life of dignity. When we turn to God, we can find the strength and courage to say "no" to things that are not good for us, and to prioritize what is truly important. This is because God's love and acceptance are not dependent on our performance or behavior, but rather on His character and nature. By relying on God, we can maintain our dignity and live a life that is true to who we are.