If you don’t know how to pray, getting started can feel strange. So, check out this simple prayer to help you grow in your prayer life, and connect with God today!
Cw: body dysmorphia
I Don’t Feel Comfortable With My Body
Standing in front of the mirror and lifting up your shirt to see how big your stomach looks. Checking to see how far you have to spread your feet apart for there to be a gap between your thighs. Missing out on lake days with your friends because you don’t want to be seen in a swimsuit. Obsessively going to the gym to catch up to the more muscular and toned people you see on social media.
It seems like we’re told our bodies must look a certain way to have value. And, we’ve internalized this message to the point where we miss out on joyous life experiences just to hide something God took so much care to create.
When God knit us together, he wasn’t concerned with the weight we’d gain after starting college, or that we’d have to go up a couple of jean sizes after having a baby. His hope for us wasn’t for our minds to obsess over which protein powders would help with the greatest gains. When he created us, he called our bodies very good.
We aren’t meant to look a certain, cookie-cutter way, or stay the same our entire lives. Our bodies are unique vessels, carrying us in this world so we can live joyfully and serve God.
Our bodies are important, and we want to steward God’s gift well, but that looks different for each of God’s unique creations.
If you’re struggling with the relationship to your body, consider this scripture and pray with us.
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10).
A Prayer for Healing Body Dysmorphia
Crafter of the Universe, who knit me together in my mother’s womb, thank you for intentionally and uniquely creating me. Remind me of my value in being your handiwork. Change my relationship with my body to a healthy one that recognizes its true purpose to be a vessel to serve and honor you. Thank you for providing me with a body I can use to do the things I enjoy. Help me to honor this gift you’ve given me. Amen.
*Note: We’re not experts on body dysmorphia, but have some personal experience. If this is a struggle you’re dealing with, or if life just feels a bit out of control, consider seeking the advice of a therapist or medical professional.
Simple prayers like this are a great way to engage in your prayer life and connect with God today. For more everyday prayers, visit this page!
