My Second Thought
We say at Charis that we do not get to choose our first thought, but we do choose our second thought. The eating disorder seeks to tear us down, whispering lies that can lead us to believe we are unworthy of healing and joy. It wants to keep us trapped, robbing us of the life we deserve. Yet, in the midst of this struggle, we serve a God who promises that recovery is possible. He calls us to embrace hope, healing, and wholeness. Here are some ways we can stand firm in His truth and choose our second thought when the eating disorder tries to pull us down again.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: You’re not strong enough to recover. Just look at yourself. You’ve tried so many times, and you always end up back here. Why even bother?
[My Second Thought]: I deserve to be free from this struggle. I am more than what you say I am.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: Free? You think you can just walk away? Look in the mirror. You’re a mess. You’ll never be enough, and you know it.
[My Second Thought]: That’s not true. I am made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). He created me with purpose and value. I deserve to see myself the way He sees me.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: God? What does He know about your pain? You’ve been through so much, and you’re still broken. You don’t deserve healing.
[My Second Thought]: The Bible says that God knows the plans He has for me, plans to prosper me and not to harm me (Jeremiah 29:11). His plans include healing and wholeness, even when I can’t see it.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: Healing takes work, and you don’t have what it takes. Just give in; it’s easier that way.
[My Second Thought]: Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It’s a step toward recovery, and I am willing to take it. The Bible encourages us to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), and I won’t face this alone.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: You really think people care? They won’t understand. You’ll just be a burden to them.
[My Second Thought]: That’s not true. There are people who love me and want to support me. I need to trust them and let them in. I deserve to be surrounded by love and encouragement.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: But what if you fail again? Everyone will see you as a failure.
[My Second Thought]: Failure doesn’t define me. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, it says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” I can embrace change and renewal. Recovery is a journey, and I can learn from every step I take.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: You think it’s that simple? You have so many obstacles in your way. You should just give up.
[My Second Thought]: Hope is my anchor, and I will hold onto it. Romans 15:13 reminds me that the God of hope will fill me with joy and peace as I trust Him. I won’t let you rob me of my hope.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: Hope won’t save you. You’re stuck in this cycle, and you always will be.
[My Second Thought]: No, I am worthy of recovery. God’s love is transformative. I believe that He can heal even my deepest wounds. I deserve to embrace the life He has for me, free from your lies.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: You’re just fooling yourself.
[My Second Thought]: Maybe, but I’m choosing to believe the truth. I am not defined by my past or my struggles. I am a beloved child of God, deserving of love, healing, and wholeness.
[The Eating Disorder’s First Thought]: You’ll see; this is a battle you can’t win.
[My Second Thought]: No, I am worthy of recovery. God’s love is transformative. I believe that He can heal even my deepest wounds. I deserve to embrace the life He has for me, free from your lies. In Psalm 147:3, it says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” I need to hold on to that promise. I can seek help and take steps toward healing because I am not defined by my struggles. I am a beloved child of God, deserving of love, compassion, and wholeness. My journey may be challenging, but I know that every step I take toward recovery is a step closer to the abundant life God has planned for me. I refuse to let you dictate my worth or my future any longer. I am ready to reclaim my life, and I will fight for the healing I deserve.