Finding Peace with Our Reflection: A Journey of Faith and Self-Acceptance

In this week's episode of *Sheila's Take*, I opened up about something deeply personal yet universally relatable: our complicated relationship with the mirror. That moment when you catch sight of yourself and barely recognize the person staring back—whether it's new laugh lines, gray hairs, or post-baby changes—can trigger a flood of emotions that many of us struggle to process.

The Mirror vs. God's Perspective

My morning routine recently led to one of those mirror moments that stopped me in my tracks. As I examined my reflection, I felt that familiar twinge of discomfort seeing evidence of time's passage on my face. But in that moment, I was reminded of 1 Samuel 16:7: *"The Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart."*

This scripture fundamentally challenges how we view ourselves. While we're fixating on every perceived flaw, God is focused on something entirely different—our hearts, our character, our capacity for love. This doesn't mean physical self-care isn't important (our bodies are indeed "temples of the Holy Spirit" as 1 Corinthians reminds us), but it does invite us to shift our perspective dramatically.

My Personal Struggle

I shared during the episode how many women, particularly after pregnancy, genuinely feel like strangers in their own skin. Our bodies change in ways that social media and magazines never prepare us for. During difficult seasons of physical change, Psalm 139:14 can become a lifeline: "I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made."

I began reciting this verse as a "mirror mantra" whenever self-criticism crept in. Gradually, my perspective transformed. Those stretch marks? Evidence of the miracle of carrying life. Those laugh lines? Proof of joy experienced. Those gray hairs? Wisdom earned through life's challenges.

Aging as a Privilege

Our culture worships youth, but Scripture offers a radically different view. Proverbs 16:31 tells us that *"Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life."* What if we viewed aging not as something to fight against but as a privilege denied to many? What if each physical change represented a chapter in our story with God?

Three Biblical Principles for Mirror Peace

During the episode, I offered three scriptural approaches to making peace with our changing reflections:

1. **Practice Gratitude**: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 encourages us to *"give thanks in all circumstances."* This includes thanking God for bodies that serve us faithfully through life's journey, despite imperfections.

2. **Focus on Inner Beauty**: 1 Peter 3:4 speaks of the *"imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit."* While physical beauty fades, character endures.

3. **Remember Your True Identity**: 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us that *"if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation."* Our worth isn't determined by reflection but by our identity as children of God.

Your Reflection Tells a Story

Every line, every change in your appearance tells a story of your journey with God. These aren't flaws to hide but testimonies of a life being lived fully for His glory. The next time you look in the mirror and feel that twinge of discomfort, I encourage you to see beyond the surface—to see the evidence of a life well-lived.

As I closed the episode in prayer, I asked God to help us see ourselves through His eyes. Because ultimately, you are fearfully and wonderfully made, and your worth goes infinitely beyond what any mirror can reflect.

*What's your relationship with the mirror? Have you found scripture that helps you embrace your changing reflection? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.*

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