When the “You’re Beautiful” devotional by Valerie Weiners showed up at my doorstep, I knew that it would be one of those devotionals that would really reach in and grab my heart. A little back story, I began following Valerie on Instagram a long time ago. I first stumbled upon her account because of her gorgeous artwork and of course I was totally floored by her talent, but it was because of her story that I stayed. She was so open and raw about her past struggles with eating disorders and addiction and I felt an immediate kinship with her.
I too have struggled. I too have faced adversity and felt unworthy. I too have been hurt and have hurt. I too have been picked on and pushed down. I too have had an eating disorder. I too have used drugs and alcohol to “make it all better”. But just as I have experienced all of those things, I too have been saved. I too have been washed clean and have been lifted up. I too have felt loved and worthy. All because of Jesus and his precious gift of salvation.
On day 1 & 2 of the devotional, Valerie talks about Genesis 3 and more specifically Genesis 3:11. I always read that scripture and felt shame and embarrassment, the way that Adam and Eve must have. I mean just think about it. You all of a sudden know that you have been walking around naked!! I don’t know about you, but being naked is NOT my idea of a good time lol. I am self conscious and can barely get naked in front of my husband, let alone all the world (sorry if that’s TMI lol). But we were not created to be that way. We were created to be unaware and unashamed about our bodies AND our inequities. It was Satan who put those awful feelings into our heads, “Not God, not Jesus. Because I know that He IS and always will be for us.”
Loves, as I leave you today, I pray that you will know that those feelings of hurt and unworthiness that you are feeling inside are not how the Father wants you to feel about yourself. He has created you perfectly. So what, you may be a bit fluffy? So what, you may be a bit twiggy? So what, you may have crooked teeth? So what, you may not be a rocket scientist? So what, you may not be an star athlete, actress, musician, [insert other thing you’re not here]?! You are His beloved! You are worthy! You are adored! You are beautiful and you have purpose!! You were created for a reason and that reason is not to feel sad or lonely… it’s to feel loved and love others!
Love,
Amanda
Crossway Single Columm Journaling Bible | Illustrated Faith by Bella Blvd Devotional by Valerie Weiners | Illustrated Faith by Bella Blvd .25 Precision Pen | Stazon Ink Pad
Beautiful, Amanda! A beautiful message.
that is amazing :)
This post is so filled with blessing and truth. You are truly a gift and a treasure!