I couldn’t help but chuckle over this cartoon today: The setting is the stereotypical psychiatrist’s office with bookcase lined walls, a leather chair for the doctor and a chaise lounge for the patient, Kleenex close at hand. Lying in the bed is a bright pink can of paint saying these words, “I’d rather be Thinner.”
I had to laugh for several reasons. One is that I just have a bizarre sense of humor, but more than that, the point hit close to home.
I would rather be…
I’ll be happy when…
If only I weighed…
Once I look better, I’ll…
When I get through this…
Next week will be better because…
I’ve begun countless sentences with these seemingly hopeful statements that actually reflect one of Satan’s favorites lies. Happiness is dependent on something outside of me.
The Lie
Numbers on a scale, wrinkles on my neck, cellulite on my thighs and age spots on my hands, these are all things on or about me but they do not define me. In Lysa’s words, II Peter 2 teaches us that, “ we are to reflect a divine nature – a secure identity in Christ – which helps us escape the corruption of the world and avoid evil desires.”
The order of events here is critical. Because I have a secure identity in Christ, that means I can fight competing desires. It does not say that once I avoid all evil desires than I’ll earn my identity as God’s child.
The Truth
My secure identity in Christ is not the end result in this battle with food, it is in fact, the foundational tool that I use in the fight.
Tomorrow morning when I step on the scale no matter what the numbers say this is what my soul will see, I am a beloved daughter of the King.
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What About You?
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Just like that can of pink paint I often have trouble wanting what I have - or being who I am. Sometimes I’m not even sure who I am!
One thing I recognized this past weekend — I need to have more plans in place because when I’m lonely and have nothing on the schedule I’m really vulnerable. And I need prayer support. I am deliberately attempting to draw closer to God and also preparing to attend a prayer retreat in late July - and it seems like the enemy is after me every which way I turn!!!
It sounds as if the enemy is declaring all out war. It’s a very tough place to be in and it must be hard not to give in out of sheer weariness. I’m so sorry that the battle is heating up.
We are all in this with you, Lucinda.
I am thankful that you have clearly identified what is going on and that you are using spiritual weapons in a very real spiritual battle.
I will stand with you in prayer.
PS- A prayer retreat sounds wonderful!!!! Don’t let anything stand in your way.
“Life would be so much better if I were slim, strong, healthy, and rich. If I lost weight I’d dress more feminine instead of trying to blend into the background.” That’s what I tell myself and to a certain degree, it’s true. What I wonder is, have I actually defined myself in this light? I don’t know. Lord, please show me. Amen.
I wonder what would happen if I asked God, “Who is Diane?” What would He say?
I am a beloved daughter of the King. I need to say that every time I doubt or have a negative thought. I feel like I will never measure up in the worlds eyes. But who am I to God? I just love that I am beloved by him, he loves me just as I am, and I need to do the same. Thanks for this wonderful food for my soul.
Beautiful thoughts for a beautiful daughter of the King. Be blessed, dear Cyndi.