A Thanksgiving Recovery Prayer

By Paige VanNorman, Program Director of the Kirsten Haglund Foundation’s Transitional Living Program

The holidays can be particularly challenging for someone recovering from an eating disorder. Everything from the changes in schedule, family dynamics, uncomfortable menu items, eating with others and expectations can cause increased stress and anxiety. What if this year, you shifted your focus from all these fears you’re carrying and onto God instead? Inviting God into these difficult places can change the narrative. When we come to God with praise and thanksgiving, even for the hard things, our perspective shifts and our burdens feel lighter. As you prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, try preparing your heart by praying the Thanksgiving recovery prayer below.

A Thanksgiving Prayer For The One Recovering From An Eating Disorder

Lord Jesus, I want to thank You:

• for my hands that are designed to serve others. 
• for my feet that are designed to travel the path You set before me. 
• for my heart that is designed to love You and others. 
• for my mind that is designed to discern Truth. 
• for my lungs that sing Your praises. 

Help me to praise You:

• when life makes sense and when it doesn’t. 
• when I have nothing and when I have overflow. 
• when I get my miracle and when I’m waiting. 
• when I’m surrounded by peace and when I’m in the midst of chaos.
• when the doors are opening and when they are shut.

Jesus,

You have lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire. You set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. (Ps. 40). Make me holy, Lord, as You are holy (I Peter 1, Lev. 19). I choose to focus my life on imitating Jesus Christ, since I am made in His image and He has given me value (Gen. 1, Ps. 139, Is. 43, Eph. 2). I fix my eyes not on what is seen [e.g., my body], but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (II Cor. 4). 

Holy Spirit, strengthen me during moments when I doubt my value or forget my identity. Correct me when my focus drifts from You and onto worldly things. Comfort me when my struggles knock me over, and remind me that Your steadfastness and Your rock are accessible to me always. You formed mankind and called Your creation good (Gen. 1)! Therefore, even when I doubt Your Truth, I will surrender my errant opinions and will acknowledge You are the One who called my created body good. You are the One who gave me a soul, and You are the One who dwells within me. Soften me when I choose rigidity. I want to align with You in all ways. 

I submit myself and my life to You. Thank you for the life You have gifted me, the body You have gifted me, and the purpose You have set before me. I love You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.