Today, I learned that advertising on television or other sites can create media monsters that can consume our positive self-image, and promote emotions such as fear. Fear (of not measuring up to popular images) leads people to feelings of self-consciousness, which drives them to seek impossibly unattainable and unsustainable “Barbie” bodies or “He-Man” physiques.
Honestly, there is no real pink plastic perfection. It’s all fake, as are the promises of some cosmetic or diet advertisements. What are these ads selling? Products (e.g. fad diets) by promoting fear and lies. Advertising companies “link food to character morals. You can be a better person if you eat this food or that.”
How do we combat the media monsters? Pray for discernment of what ads are really saying and selling (James 1:5). Be aware of what you are thinking and feeling while watching the ads in whichever medium. Sit with the emotion, then critically think versus acting impulsively. Decide how you are going to act rationally. If ads make you feel “less than,” consider rationally writing to editors of magazines or other companies. Practice body acceptance. Don’t accept negative internalized messages. You are wonderfully-made (Psalm 139:14).
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
God’s ways and wisdom are perfect. He makes no mistakes, and you are wonderful just the way God made you.
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