By Pr. Eileen Gelderbloem
Often times, we tend to compare ourselves to others. Their hair, their body type, clothing, shoes, their jobs, titles, careers and so much more.
We even sometimes imagine what it would be like to be them or to live their lives. Imagining ourselves in their positions, clothing or hairstyles. Some of us will go so far as to “copy” or imitate those we admire, love or are sometimes even, envious of.
This got me thinking about who I admire or consider a role model. Who have I been imitating or striving to be like? My mentors, or spiritual leaders and inspirations. Have I become more like them? Do I own my own identity or have my own “voice” or am I easily persuaded by the influence of others or things around me?
I know this sounds so silly, like how can I not be myself? Who else can I be? I am my own person, with my own thoughts and choices. But if we’re really honest with ourselves, as women, we struggle with being comfortable in our own skin. It feels at times, like we are never good enough. We will never be thin enough or have the right skin tone or type. Our lips are too thin or too fat, or our bodies are too round or skinny. My hair isn’t curly enough or too straight. Or maybe yours is the complete opposite, your hair is too curly and not straight enough.
These are images and stigma’s we have to fight and face every single day. The ideal woman throughout the ages has evolved so much, that it leaves us so confused as to what is considered, healthy or perfect or flawless. To the point where we are so dissatisfied with ourselves and our lives. Always striving for more, striving for better…. For the impossible.
This is what the enemy does, he creeps in and tries to convince us, that we will never be good enough or measure up to the ideals of man. But you know what? I’m okay with that. I feel like Paul who said in:
Phil 4:11 – 13
11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Can we get to the place where we are simply content with WHO, WHERE & WHAT we are?
We have been made in the image and in the likeness of God, and so that makes us PERFECT!
May we never let anyone make us feel or think differently. So, what if I have curly, kinky hair, am too short to be a model or have to wear glasses because my genetic decided to give me poor eyesight? I am fearfully, and wonderfully made!
Love yourself,
You are far more precious than gems.
