What the Bible Says About Body Image

Posted on February 11, 2023 by Jasmine Garner, One of Thousands of Christian Coaches on Noomii.

The body positivity movement has been around for centuries, but in recent years, we are seeing more social causes and solutions for how to deal with self-perception with our body image and how it makes us feel. Christians are not exempt from the struggles that most women face with their image and worth. In fact, 87% of women are stuck comparing themselves to images online. It doesn’t matter what religion or background these women are, the issue is that almost a majority are struggling with themselves.

So what does the Bible have to say about this movement and how should Christians respond? God is not ignoring the issues of humanity, rather, He is very present in times of trouble. I wanted to clear that up first before you think that God doesn’t care. He very much does, according to Psalm 138:8, “God will perfect what concerns you.” He is concerned for you and desires for you to experience freedom from internal struggles that hinder your view of Him and yourself.

In the Bible, we learn that our bodies are made for God’s glory. “Therefore, glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:20) We learn that our bodies don’t just belong to us, but to Him. We are made to do good things in our bodies, things that make God delight in us. But in order for us to do this, we have to delight in Him. We don’t give our bodies to people who we don’t like or adore. You will find that you give yourself to God more freely when you have come to truly adore His presence and His words. You won’t hold anything back, because in His presence you will learn, “His ways are perfect, His word is flawless” (Psalm 18:30)

In the Bible, we learn that God shaped us from the dirt and crowned us with honor and glory. I often say that we are the crown of His creation because Psalm 8:5 tells us that He has made us the cherry on top of all that He made. Although we may not feel like we are deserving or worthy, God made us worthy. In fact, He already approved and validated you at the beginning of time. “God looked over everything He made and said that it was good, and He validated it completely.” (Genesis 1:31) Yes, you are already validated and accepted by God in your body and feelings that you have today. Because of this truth, you are worthy of dignity and love.

In the Bible, we also learn that God has a way for us to care for our bodies. Physical fitness and attire is important. He says, “if anyone destroys His temple, then He will destroy them.” (1 Corinthians 3:17) Does that sound harsh? God is loving, but He is also strict in divine order. Our bodies are made to be temples of His Holy Spirit, but when we destroy our temples, God is angry. We can’t glorify God with our body if we destroy ourselves with poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and destructive beauty standards. We are called to take good care of ourselves and to dress appropriately in public.

So you see, God has plenty to say about body image and self-esteem in the Bible. I haven’t even covered it all, just a few key points that I hope have planted good thoughts in your mind about yourself and who God is. His love for you is unending, and He proved this when He sent His Son Jesus Christ to die on the cross for your sins. Jesus is the Healer who came to set you free from the bondage you experience about your body and self-worth. This is how much He cares, that He rose again to give you a new life and outlook.

I pray that this has helped in some way or another. God bless you and I hope to speak with you to learn your story and how I can help enhance your body image and increase your self-esteem.