Today’s Post by: Rae Lynn DeAngelis
“Some men came, bringing to [Jesus] a paralytic, carried by four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” (Mark 2:3-5)
Without the modern medical devices we have today, this paralytic would have been completely dependant on others for help. Family and friends must have played an important role in this man’s day-to-day life. He had to rely on others to help him eat, bathe, and move from place to place. Being dependent on others was the only way he could survive.
When the paralytic heard Jesus was coming to town, perhaps it was the first glimmer of hope he had for healing. These faithful friends were not only concerned for the well being of their friend, but they were willing to get him the help he needed. Their compassion led them to take action.
There are illnesses today that can disable a person to such a degree they feel as though they can’t move. Do you know someone who might be struggling with an eating disorder? Like this paralytic, they may be so paralyzed by their illness that they’re unable to get the help they need.
Perhaps you’re afraid to confront your friend or loved one’s unhealthy patterns of behavior because you fear their denial, rejection, or even anger. I understand your apprehension, but speaking from the perspective of someone who lived with an eating disorder for many years, denying a problem exists only enables a person to sink further and further into bondage, making freedom and healing even more difficult.
When confronting your friend or loved one, first and foremost, go to God in prayer and seek His guidance and direction. Then, when the timing is right, let your friend or loved one know how much you care about them and share your concern for their well being. Take it from someone who knows…Satan has power when things are kept a secret. Verbalizing your concern is a big step in the right direction.
It is important to remember that before a person can break free from an eating disorder, they have to come to a place where they want to get well. You can help them get there and here’s how. Love them, pray for them, and help them see their value and beauty in God’s eyes. Remind them that God has a plan and purpose for their life.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Eating disorders are very complex and involve the body, mind, and spirit. Encourage your friend to treat all aspects of the disease. They should seek medical and psychological help for sure, but it is also important to treat the spiritual aspect of a person’s health through a Christian based support system, such as what Living in Truth Ministries offers.
If you need additional help or would like to know available resources for treating eating disorders, visit our website at livingintruthministries.com.
There are four vital ways you can help your friend or loved one who’s struggling with an eating disorder.
T – Talk about your concern (in a loving, non-condemning way)
E – Encourage them to get help (and provide available resources)
L – Love them (support them through recovery)
L – Lift-up them up (never underestimate the power of prayer)
Here are three vital steps a person with an eating disorder needs to take.
A – Acknowledge you have a problem (Do you want to get well?)
S – Surrender the secret (Tell someone you trust)
K – Know the truth (Destroy the lies)
“Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32)
“He sent forth his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave.” (Psalm 107:20)
