Pure Magazine

When you look in the mirror, what do you see? I know this is a question asked in every “self-image” article, but it’s an important one…so work with me. When you see your reflection, what emotions come to surface? Are you satisfied, neutral, sad, or depressed? Do you think you are a plain Jane? Do you automatically begin pointing out your flaws or do you notice your beautiful smile?

These last few months I have been focusing on my goal to lose weight.  They have not been the easiest few months but I’ve learned a lot. One of the books I began reading to help me along my journey is “Power Thoughts” by Joyce Meyer.  In her book, Joyce explains that our thoughts can control us if we don’t learn to control them. If we think negatively about ourselves, we are bound to be negative people, and therefore struggle to reach our goals. If we think positively, we are bound to be positive people and therefore find it much easier to reach our goals. You would think this simple concept would cure the problems of the world. However, very few people take hold of it and run with it.

Image borrowed from: http://pursuingproverbs31.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/woman-praying-silhoutte.jpg

Tonight I was watching an episode of “What Not to Wear”. It is one of my favorite shows. Stacy and Clinton know what they’re doing. Pretty much every episode inspires me in some way. However, the episode that aired tonight really hit home.  The woman getting the make-over was a recent divorcee, had gained some weight, and due to a health problem considered herself to be a “freak”. She said that no man would ever be interested in her and she felt no need to take care of herself because no one cared. Even as I am writing this, tears are coming to my eyes.

It is so easy to fall into the trap that Satan lays for us.He can plant one thought into our mind and affect our whole life.  He can even use those that are closest to us to say hurtful things that stay with us for years. And for those that are unaware they have power over their thoughts, these lies can turn into a lifestyle and damage what God has created. “What has He created”, you ask? He has created Y.O.U.

Y – Yahweh’s

O – Original

U- Utility

Just like the power utility in your home, you must pay thebills to keep the lights on. To keep your inner light shining, you must “paythe bills” so to speak. I don’t mean opening up your wallet and handing out cash. I mean taking time aside for God and reading His Word, meditating on the truth, and taking care of your body (which is his Holy Temple).

Image borrowed from: http://dezignus.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/flying-girl.jpg

In tonight’s episode of “What Not to Wear”, Stacy asked the troubled young woman to keep repeating these simple words. I wish every girl and woman in the world would repeat them with her (and me).

"I am beautiful and I am going to share my beauty with the world." 

Stacy “What Not to Wear”

And here’s the best part…God agrees.

Philippians 2:14-16

 14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.”[c] Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life.

We are not meant to hide in our clothes and walk around like dull fuddy dutties that hate life. We are meant to stand out and shine like stars in the sky. Rise up, women and start shining! Let’s look in the mirror and see radiance! Let’s take hold of the truth that we are Yahweh’s Original Utility.

Keep the lights on! Pay the bills! Know that you are beautiful on the inside and out!