Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder. It is a psychological and potentially life-threatening condition. Those suffering from this disorder are typically struggling with extremely low body weight relative to their body type.
While the Bible does not say anything specific about this condition, those who struggle with Anorexia often feel helpless. And the Bible has plenty of encouragement to provide regarding this condition. The Scriptures tell us that God can fully heal and restore anyone in bondage to anything, including the sufferers from anorexia nervosa (Galatians 5:1). In fact, God can re-create their minds and bodies anew (Isaiah 1:18) to make them fit His image (Genesis 1:27).
First – To experience victory over anorexia nervosa, one must first claim God’s promises by faith. The Lord assures that we can be “saved to the uttermost” (Hebrews 7:25), be “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37) and “always triumph” (2 Corinthians 2:14).
Then, instead of focusing on our weakness, we need to focus on Christ by having a daily relationship with Him through the study of His Word and prayer. There is infinite power in His word. As long as we stay connected to God daily, we can experience complete victory. Jesus promised, “He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit…” (John 15:5). With Christ’s power, the believer can declare, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
Second, the Bible teaches that how we look is not what defines us (1 Peter 3:3). For the “LORD looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). God loves us so much that He sent His son to die for us (John 3:16). So, our value comes from who we are in Christ and not from how we look.
Therefore, respect your body and treat it will. The Bible teaches, “do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body [a]and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Third – one should take constructive steps to overcome Anorexia by implementing a healthy food plan around the American Dietetic Association guidelines under the supervision of medical doctors and professionals. It would also be helpful to have assistance from Christian counselors and a support group, who will support the person emotionally during the path to recovery.
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In His service,
BibleAsk Team
