No Earning Required

For seven years during my 20s, I struggled with an eating dis­order. Today, despite many full and rewarding years of recovery from this vicious disease, I still struggle with self-esteem issues. I am a mother, wife and nurse. I volunteer my time and pledge my financial resources. I commit to a daily quiet time and strive to be an example to others. I was brought up in a strong Christian home, and I know that we are saved by grace, and not through any works. Yet despite all I have learned of God’s grace, I confess that sometimes deep down I still feel I have to earn that grace.

Just as Paul had his ‘thorn in the flesh’, I have my ‘thorn in the mind’. Twenty-seven years ago God granted me ‘surrender’ with my eating disorder, helping me to have a healthy attitude toward food and perfectionism. Now God continues to grant me daily surrender in my mind. He is love, even love for me just as I am.

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank you for saving us and for loving us, even when we find it hard to love ourselves. Use us as witnesses to your grace and mercy. Amen