Today's Scripture
"You are the one who put me together inside my mother's body, and I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt." Psalm 139:13-14 CEV
Thoughts for Today
In the United States, an estimated six to eleven million people struggle with eating disorders. Distorted body image and denial of actual body size can trigger eating disordered behavior. Most people falling into the trap of eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia are preoccupied with food and their body image.
People with this preoccupation usually let their body define who they are. They exaggerate the importance of slimness and are terrified of gaining weight. They are dissatisfied with their body to the point that their day-to-day state of well-being is affected.
Consider This...
Does this describe you or someone you care about? Consider asking God to help you see yourself through his eyes. He loves you unconditionally. He created you in his image. In fact, the Bible tells us that God formed our inmost being in our mother's womb with his plan already in place for our lives. He made you special and unique, equipped with the gifts you need to accomplish his purpose for your journey.
When you look in the mirror, remember that you are viewing someone very special, designed by God. You self-worth does not depend on how much you weigh or even on what you accomplish. You are special because God created you and because he loves you.
Prayer
Father, thank you for making me just the way I am. When I start feeling down on myself, remind me that I am your special creation, that you made me special and unique - perfectly designed to do what you've called me to do. In Jesus' name:
These thoughts were drawn from … Seeing Yourself in God's Image: Overcoming Anorexia and Bulimia by Martha Homme, MA, LPC. Written by a counselor with experience helping those with eating disorders, this study is born from her own struggles in adolescence. The group challenges members to find their identity in Christ as they overcome this difficult struggle. This guide offers understanding of distorted body image, denial, and the family systems influence. It also explains how to break free of social pressures and how to restore the temple and tie the recovery process together. A companion booklet Seeing Your Loved One in God's Image, can be used as a quick reference guide dealing with issues associated with eating disorders. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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