What is self-consciousness according to the Bible?

Self-consciousness, when functioning independently of the Word, leads to a hell of preoccupation with ourselves. This can manifest as either pride in our greatness or despair over our worthlessness. However, when our awareness of ourselves is based on what the Word says about how God sees us in Christ, we can accept ourselves realistically and put both our strengths and weaknesses in perspective. We are infinitely precious to God just as we are, yet we never stop striving for conformity to Christ. This self-image is not based on our own perceptions or feelings but on the Living Word through the written Word. The Bible teaches that there are seven steps downward leading to death/cursing: submission to God, purifying ourselves, reorienting to God, and others. Self-consciousness plays a crucial role in these steps, particularly in the spiritual hardening process, where we become callous and give ourselves over to sensuality. When we base our self-image on the Word, we can avoid this downward spiral and instead walk in humility and obedience to God.