by Naomi Cassata

After looking at the pictures in her teen magazine, Stephanie jumped up to examine her own appearance. Looking into the mirror, she didn’t like what she saw. My nose is too big, my eyes are too narrow, and my belly is too fat, she thought to herself.

It’s so easy to compare ourselves with those we see in magazines, on television, or even around us. The world puts great worth on attractiveness. Society gives its own opinions of what attractiveness is and what it is not. Unfortunately, we also fall into the trap of believing this to be true as we strive to become someone the world considers beautiful.

God has made you wonderfully (magnificently, amazingly, marvelously), according to Psalm 139:14:

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

Your nose, eyes, smile, and body type make you unique and special to God. He took great care in creating you just the way you are, and He does all things well.

Do you find yourself comparing your appearance to others, whether it’s in a magazine, on television or someone you know?

Reread the above scripture and consider how God views you. Ask the Lord to help you see yourself the way He sees you: wonderfully made.