I have been struggling lately with my sense of beauty. I look in the mirror and see my fattened face, I try to squeeze into pants that no longer fit, I feel the love handles sticking out over my jeans, and something inside starts to doubt my beauty.
As a mother of a tween girl, I have to be VERY careful about what I am modeling for her. I do not want her to ever question her beauty or feel she is not pretty enough. She is gorgeous, but not because of her sweet face or her lovely figure, but because of her soul that only those who know her can see. That beauty is more important than a pretty face by a long shot!
We hear the expression "Beauty is skin deep", but I would like to coin a new expression: "Beauty is soul deep." The beauty of our souls is where we should be focused. That beauty is there no matter what our physical body looks like. If people can't see it, they don't know us.
If you are like me and are struggling with your changing body, let me suggest two scriptures to you.
The first is 1 Peter 3:3-4
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's eyes.
The second is Psalm 139:13-14
You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made!
I challenge you to post these on your bathroom mirror, so each morning, as your making yourself up, you can remember that God only cares about the beauty of your soul. The next time you are feeling down about your external appearance, remember that God made you just the way you are and YOU are FEARFULLY and WONDERFULLY made!
God bless you all, my beautiful friends! Nancy
2 comments:
You're so not alone :) We are our own worse critic. . .I know I am too hard on myself in many aspects. I agree completely that the way we treat ourselves can make a HUGE impact on kids. This is one reason I have issues with plastic surgery.
I think you are beautiful and a super strong woman!
You are one of the most profoundly beautiful people I have ever met. Your strenght and grace are not only a positive influence on Hannah and everyone you meet. I've always believed that our scars are proof that the battles we have fought are real, and a daily reminder of heard earned victory! What some may call imperfections I call proof of strength, reality and love. Thank you for reminding us all of just how beautiful we are!
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