Beautiful by Design
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When it comes to body type, women aren't simply apples or pears; we're a whole fruit basket of sizes and shapes. Personally, I've always wanted to be a banana—tall, blonde, slender, and firm—but I'm more like an overripe peach.
Every fruit has its own color, shape, and flavor. In the same way, when God created us in his image (Genesis 1:27) and for his pleasure (Revelation 4:11), he had a particular plan in mind for our one-of-a-kind figures. Instead of "one size fits all," his plan was "one size fits you."
Unfortunately, we live in a "one size fits most" culture. The pressure to conform, to be the "right" size—for many of us, a smaller size—is intense. What's a bigger girl to do? Make intelligent food choices (hand over the plain yogurt, honey) and add more movement (treadmill, here I come).
But what if the extra weight doesn't disappear? Or comes off in the "wrong" places? Or leaves us smaller, but still pear-shaped? Or sneaks back on, despite our best efforts?
I've so been there, on all counts. If Weight Watchers gave a prize for the most tries, I'd definitely be in the running. For years, not only did my closet have different outfits for different seasons, it had different sizes for different seasons.
Each time I went through that yo-yo cycle, I berated myself unmercifully. I saw myself as ugly and treated myself as worthless. I ate whatever was handy, and no longer cared about nutrition. I stopped applying makeup and started wearing frumpy clothes. I was so convinced I was unattractive that I became unattractive. Talk about a downward spiral!
Embraceable You
If you're there, dear sister, try my solution: Feed your heart with the truth that you're "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14). And exercise God's gift of grace and acceptance by not judging yourself (Luke 6:37).
So wrap your big, beautiful body in clothes that make you feel and look your best right now—not "when." Style your hair, wear cosmetics if you like, and just get out there. People will take their cue from you; if you're comfortable with who you are, they will be, too.
I once asked my readers, "What words come to mind when you think of your body?" Some responses were predictably negative: "the blob," "the lump," "wide load." But the positive answers were thrilling. "Plush, functional, bountiful, dynamic," wrote one woman. "A wonderful piece of machinery," offered another. My favorite body image? "It washes up nicely and never shrinks!"
The best word to describe your body, however, is beautiful. God's Word assures you, "God has made everything beautiful for its own time" (Ecclesiastes 3:11). "Everything" would include you. Top to toe and hip to hip.
Never mind the narrow and ever-changing definition of beauty handed down by Hollywood. God's view is broader and lasts forever. You may never look like an ultra-thin model or movie star, but those celebrities, bless their hearts, will never get to look like you!
Related Topics:
Acceptance, Beauty, Dieting, Expectations, Weight, Weight Loss
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Naomi
I think your write-up is encouraging and soul lifting. Especially when you make effort and you don't have much to show for your efforts.
annie
I love how this article points out, from Genesis to Revelation, how gloriously different we all are, because of the Hands of the Father! And believe you me, I will now be clinging to the concept that “God’s view [of beauty] is broader and lasts forever”; it’s as comforting as a bear hug and gives a sense of unmatched security. Just sink into that for a moment... For someone who would have either won a Lifetime Achievement Award from Weight Watchers for the most tries, or would have been banned for the most grievous failures, this article has struck a chord and has given this “work in progress” reason to lift her multiple chins with a bit more dignity and hope. Thank you.
Jean
Thank you for your wise and timely words. Yesterday, my husband said (again!) don't worry that you don't look good. Some people just will never look good and you are one of them, but people like you despite of it. Everytime he has bemoaned the fact I am not one of his swimsuit calendar model ideals, or makes comments like I just mentioned, it hurts deeply. Thank you for reminding me I am wonderfully made. My God thinks I am beautiful and in Him will I trust.
Tecla
Uplifting article.God bless you for beig an inspiration.
bonnie
thank you for sharing this, Liz, we all needed to hear this message of His love for us, no matter what size and where we are on the journey towards Him. Bless you, Sister!
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