Let’s get real for a second. How many times have you stood in front of the mirror, pinching that one stubborn spot on your body, thinking, “If only this would go away, I’d be happy”? Or maybe you’ve caught yourself scrolling through Instagram, comparing your body to those perfectly curated images of fitness influencers and feeling that little pang of inadequacy. Trust me, I’ve been there—more times than I’d like to admit.
So, the big question: Does Jesus care about our body image? And while we’re at it, does He care about our diet and exercise routines? The answer is a resounding yes—but probably not in the way you’re thinking.
Jesus Cares About Your Body—Just Not How You Think
Let’s dive right into what Jesus said in Matthew 6:25-27: “Do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?” This is Jesus telling us to chill out about the things we obsess over daily—like our diet, our wardrobe, and yes, even those extra pounds that just won’t budge.
But don’t get me wrong—this doesn’t mean that Jesus is telling us to stop caring about our bodies altogether. He’s just asking us to put things into perspective. Your body is important, but it’s not the most important thing. Life is more than food, and your body is more than clothing—or how it looks in that outfit you’ve been dying to fit into.
Jesus cares deeply about your body because it’s part of who you are. He created it, after all. But here’s the twist: He cares even more about what’s going on inside of you—your heart, your mind, your soul. He’s not as concerned with how you look in the mirror as He is with how you reflect His love and grace in the world.
The Bread of Life vs. The Latest Diet Fad
Now, let’s talk about diet and exercise. In today’s world, it feels like there’s a new diet trend every week. Keto, paleo, intermittent fasting, the all-juice cleanse (which, let’s be honest, sounds like pure torture)—it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of what’s “in” and what’s “out” when it comes to food and fitness.
But then we read John 6:35, where Jesus says, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” This is Jesus reminding us that while physical food and exercise are necessary, they aren’t the be-all and end-all. The nourishment He offers—His love, His presence, His grace—satisfies in a way that no diet ever could.
Does this mean we should throw our workout plans and healthy eating habits out the window? Not at all! Taking care of our bodies is a good thing—it’s part of being a good steward of the life God’s given us. But the key is balance. When our diet and exercise routines start taking over our lives, causing anxiety or leading us to idolize our physical appearance, it’s time to step back and remember where our true worth comes from.
Body Image in a “Perfect” World
We live in a culture that’s obsessed with perfection. Perfect bodies, perfect diets, perfect Instagram feeds. And if we’re not careful, we can start to think that our worth is tied to how well we measure up to these unrealistic standards. But Jesus calls us to a different standard—a standard of love, grace, and acceptance.
When you look in the mirror, do you see yourself the way Jesus sees you? Because let me tell you, He’s not looking at your stretch marks, cellulite, or that little pooch you’ve been trying to get rid of. He’s looking at your heart, your spirit, the unique person He created you to be. And to Him, you’re beautiful, exactly as you are.
That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t strive to be healthy and take care of our bodies—after all, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). But it does mean we need to stop letting the world’s standards dictate how we see ourselves. Instead, let’s start seeing ourselves through the eyes of the One who created us and calls us His beloved.
But What About Worry?
Let’s circle back to that pesky little thing called anxiety. Jesus knew that we’d be prone to worry—that’s why He talked about it so much! In Matthew 6:32-34, He tells us, “Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Jesus gets it—life is full of things to worry about. But He’s also telling us to trust Him with those worries.
When it comes to our bodies, our diets, our exercise routines, and our overall health, Jesus is saying, “I’ve got this. I know what you need. Focus on seeking Me first, and I’ll take care of the rest.” It’s not about neglecting our physical health; it’s about prioritizing our spiritual health, knowing that when we do, everything else will fall into place.
So, Where Do We Go From Here?
If you’re anything like me, this is easier said than done. We’re so used to striving, comparing, and stressing that it can be hard to let go and let God take the reins. But here’s the good news: Jesus is patient. He’s not asking you to have it all figured out overnight. He’s inviting you to take small steps, to trust Him a little more each day, and to find your identity in Him rather than in the number on the scale or the size of your jeans.
So, the next time you’re tempted to stress about your body image, remember this: Jesus cares deeply about you—your body, your mind, your soul. He’s not asking you to be perfect; He’s asking you to seek Him first, to trust that He knows what you need, and to rest in the knowledge that you are loved and valued just as you are.
Discover Body Image Freedom With Jesus
This is not your typical diet plan. There are no strict rules, meal plans, or exercise regimens to follow. Instead, this guide invites you to engage in daily conversations with Jesus through journaling prompts that help you discover what He sees in you and what He desires for your life. Over the next 14 days, you’ll explore:
- Day 1-7: Discovering Truth and Beauty: Uncover how Jesus sees your beauty and worth, understand your relationship with food, and learn to nourish your body and soul.
- Day 8-14: Walking in New Freedom: Embrace God’s gifts, break free from lies, and find joy in movement as you honor your body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.
Practical Wrap-Up: A Challenge for the Week
This week, I challenge you to do something a little different. Instead of focusing on what you want to change about your body, focus on what you’re grateful for. Thank Jesus for the body He gave you—the body that allows you to walk, talk, hug your loved ones, and experience the world around you.
And if you’re struggling with body image, diet, or exercise anxiety, take it to Jesus. Ask Him to help you see yourself through His eyes, to guide you in making healthy choices, and to remind you that your worth is not defined by your appearance, but by His love for you.
Let’s start seeing our bodies as the amazing creations they are—fearfully and wonderfully made by a God who cares about every detail of our lives, from the hairs on our heads to the thoughts in our hearts.
