weekly newsletter // aug 25, 2023

>>> when scripture is used against your body

Bible verses are sometimes taken out of context to create spiritual standards for body size. This week, I started a series on social media to discuss passages that have been used against larger-bodied believers. Here’s the first one:

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Perhaps these verses have been used to call into question your spirituality or your ability to honor God in your body. However, the context of 1 Corinthians chapter 16 is sexual immorality, not diet or body size. The Bible states no preference and makes no requirement for body size, not in 1 Corinthians, or any other passage. When choosing people to serve Him, even in leadership, God says that He looks at the heart, not at outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7).

The world—and some Christians—clearly despise and dishonor fat bodies. However, God values every body. Believers of all sizes can honor God in the bodies they have right now.

>>> read my article in salt + sparrow‘s online publication

This week I was featured as a contributing writer for the inspirational and encouraging publication Salt + Sparrow. You can read my devotion here: “When God Asks You to Surrender Control”.

I would be so blessed if you visited Salt + Sparrow to read the article and left a comment for me!

>>> new podcast episode

This week, you can listen to part 3 of the mini-retreat webinar I hosted in early August. Episode 2.13 explores the need to ask God hard questions like, “Where were You when this happened to me?” We’ll talk about how these questions aren’t disrespectful to God; they’re a necessary process that builds our trust in Him. We‘ll press into God’s presence through a spiritual writing exercise, and close our time with a song of worship led by Brynn Goodwin.   You can listen here: pressing in podcast

Have a wonderful weekend!