Body Image - Part 2

Current statistics say that 90% of women and young girls are unhappy with their body image. Why such discontentment with the creativity of the Master Artist? The modern media onslaught claims that our value is derived from what our bodies look like. We are “ok” only if we are perfectly matched to the photos on the latest magazine covers. We have foolishly allowed ourselves to think that we are defined by unrealistic images when the TRUTH is that we are defined by God’s love and care for us!
 
The truth of scripture maintains three major themes regarding our bodies.

• We are FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY made by the God who created the universe. His blueprint for our bodies was and is perfect. His plan for how all of our pieces and parts fit together was thoughtful and without flaw (Psalm 139:13-16). Our bodies proclaim God’s creative genius!
• Our bodies serve as His holy Temple (I Corinthians 6:19), and as such, should be cared for. Are exercise and diet important? Absolutely! Should the results of diet and exercise define who we are? Absolutely not!
• Our physical bodies are fading. As much as we try to defy His grand design through diet, exercise, and other medical procedures, aging will happen (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). Will we age with grace, or will we waste valuable time and energy striving for a false reality?

 
What we communicate to our kids about their bodies will have a tremendous impact on how they view themselves. We must counteract the false images and ideas that are bombarding our kids with the Truth of scripture! Take great care to communicate-by your words AND actions- that we are defined not by the reflection in the mirror, but by His reflection on our hearts!
 

What do you allow to define you? Do you believe and act as if God’s design for you was and is perfect, or have you bought into the lies of our culture that you must look a certain way in order to have value?
 
Is there some part of your body you don’t like? Your eyes, nose, ears? Do a little research. You will discover the amazing complexity and beauty of those same eyes, nose, or ears!