I just heard the term body image idolatry today!  Boy does that sum up those who feel their body has to be perfect and idolize those with thin, perfect bodies. Many tell me they have put on unwanted pounds with this COVID shut down. Others tell me they are emotional impacted with boredom, frustration and agitation that leaves them uptight and eating more.

When we don’t feel confident about our appearance or we compare ourselves to others, you may feel reluctant to reach out. Sometimes we get so self-absorbed into our own demons that we fail to consider others in need.

What I am aware is that this year our lives have been turned upside down due to what’s going on in our country with COVID and the restrictions placed on us. When we have to wear our masks, it feels like we have to cover our identity.  This is an added irritation as have to rely on smiling with our eyes. To top it off, we have added pounds that may hold us back from branching out. Many are left depressed, and somewhat hopeless that life hasn’t delivered the freedom we think we deserve.

I believe the freedom we are seeking isn’t based on how we look or what others think about us, but an internal compass that says I am beautiful just as I am. It’s based on how we talk to ourselves resulting in the confidence we project. Much can stem from our faith in a creator who never evaluates us based on appearance. We are deeply loved, regardless.

I have been leading a study called “Uninvited” by Lysa Terkquest which focused on overcoming rejection. What I am aware of is we all have moments in life where people don’t approve of us, others say hateful remarks, literally dismiss us because of our appearance, and for whatever reason rejects us. It can hurt at our deepest core as we so long for others to approve of us and to feel wanted.

We need to learn to be a friend to ourselves and speak in ways that affirm who we truly are…a unique creation of God who sees our hearts. So if we have heart wounds from the past or never feel good enough, join me in a 5-day challenge to overcome these demons and put them to bed once in for all! You are worth taking care of yourself so you will pass on confidence to future generations.

I ran across a great tapping mediation today that Nick Ortner put together on his app The Tapping Solutions called You Are Enough.  You might download this free app for added confidence.