Somewhere between women’s magazines, church potlucks, and the invention of shapewear, we learned a dangerous lie: that our bodies are just temporary drafts. That we’re all walking around as “before” pictures—waiting for a future version of ourselves that will finally be worthy of confidence, compliments, and sleeveless tops.
But I’ve come to a decision.
My body is not a before picture.
It is not a “work in progress” God forgot to finish. It is not a ministry project for strangers. And it is definitely not an apology.
God Did Not Create a Rough Draft
Psalm 139 says we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Fearfully. Wonderfully. Not “adequately assembled with room for improvement.”
If God had intended me to be a before picture, Scripture would say:
“You are fearfully and wonderfully made… pending updates.”
But it doesn’t.
God looked at His creation—including bodies of all shapes, sizes, ages, and abilities—and called it very good (Genesis 1:31). Not “good if she loses ten pounds.” Just… good.
This Body Has Earned Its Stripes (Literally)
This body has lived. It has survived seasons that nearly broke me. It has carried stress in my shoulders, laughter in my belly, and wisdom in my laugh lines.
Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us there is a time for everything. Including a time when your metabolism retires early without notice.
And yet—here I am. Still standing. Still breathing. Still used by God.
Which tells me something important: purpose is not measured in inches or pounds.
Jesus Never Asked Anyone to Shrink
Let’s be clear—Jesus never told anyone, “Come back when you’re smaller.”
He said:
“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Not:
“Come to me, all who are toned and well-hydrated.”
Jesus fed people. A lot. With bread. And fish. No side salads. No guilt. No calorie counting. Just abundance and compassion.
Strength Looks Different Than Instagram Thinks
Proverbs 31 talks about a woman clothed in strength and dignity—not spandex and self-loathing.
And Isaiah 46:4 says:
“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He who will sustain you.”
Notice it doesn’t say, “As long as you stay youthful and camera-ready.”
God’s idea of strength has always included softness, endurance, and the ability to keep going even when your knees crack like bubble wrap.
Stewardship, Not Self-Punishment
Loving my body doesn’t mean I think it’s perfect. It means I stop treating it like an enemy.
Romans 12:1 tells us our bodies are living sacrifices—holy and pleasing to God. Which means hating them, starving them, or constantly criticizing them probably isn’t worship.
I move my body because it helps me feel alive.
I rest because God literally commanded it.
I dress it with dignity because I’m not required to look miserable to be holy.
A Holy Reframe
I am not a before picture.
I am not a project.
I am not an apology.
I am a woman made in the image of God—right now, as I am.
Soft where I’m soft. Strong where I’m strong. Still growing. Still loved.
And if God can use a burning bush, a donkey, and a man who ran from his calling… He can absolutely use this body.
Even on days when it needs a nap.
Faith Love n Joy 