Susan pulls on a red tank top. One look at her upper arms and she reaches for the blue short-sleeved top instead.
Mary refuses an invitation to a swimming party, too self-conscious to don a suit.
Self-image—what we believe about ourselves—plays an important role in our overall health.
Self-images are formed early in life based on how our parents treat us, what our friends say, and our own thoughts. These images transform as we mature, experience life’s ups and downs, and assess our worth. When grounded in truth, images are positive and work in our favor. Otherwise, a negative image emerges.
Self-image based on distorted perceptions can radically affect eating habits. While one person permits perceived imperfections to be an excuse for eating more, another allows those same thoughts to be the motivating force behind an extreme diet. Painful comments and situations, such as a parent’s persistent reference to a child’s weight gain, may trigger a lifestyle of improper eating, be it overeating, under eating, or under nourishment. Adolescence also wreaks havoc on self-images. We are blessed if we make it through unscathed.
So, how do we combat these thoughts and perceptions? Choose to believe truth. Listen to the One who speaks truth. It’s not too late. A healthy self-image leads to a joyful life and healthier lifestyle (including eating an appropriate amount of food).
God is your Creator and you were made in His image (Gen 1:27). You are his workmanship (Eph 2:10) and are fearfully and wonderfully made (Ps 139:14). You are priceless; so much so He sent His son to die on the cross for you. He loves you and accepts you right where you are, faults and all. He does not require anything from you. God will continue to love you and accept you even if you never change. Believe Truth! Rearrange your self-image around God’s Word.
What do you think of yourself?
What do you see when you look in the mirror?
Do you believe God loves you and accepts you unconditionally?
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