ing accusatory with “ You ”. For example , “ I am really concerned that you haven ’ t eaten all day . It worries me you could become really ill .”
3
. If they are open , share information about eating disorders with them . Do your homework ahead of time , seeking resources which could be beneficial to your loved one .
4
. Affirm his or her value to you and God . It may be best to not refer to God as “ Heavenly Father ”, since many people with eating disorders have been molested or abused by a family member , possibly a father figure . Simply “ God ” or “ The Lord ” works well .
5
. As the Holy Spirit leads , share Bible verses with them , avoiding a judgmental tone . Focus on their value and God ’ s love for them . Scripture speaks well for itself . Try asking how they view some of the passages
you share . Pray with your friend if they are willing to do so . If not , let them know you will pray for them . Do so later in your own personal prayer time .
6
. Offer support . Be willing to help them locate a treatment center or offer to go with him or her the first time .
7
. Continue to offer affirmation and encouragement . The person should not feel your relationship is dependent upon their agreement with you . ( NEDA - What Should I Say ?)
Eating disorders are serious issues with life threatening implications . Reaching out to someone with one is the first step to healing and wholeness . Your loving concern can mean a lifetime of wholeness and a deeper walk with Jesus for them .
* Names were changed to protect the privacy of the individuals mentioned in this article .
RESOURCES FOR HELP
Timberline Knolls http :// www . timberlineknolls . com
Canopy Cove http :// www . canopycove . com /
Selah House http :// www . selahhouse . com
Eating Disorder Hope http :// eatingdisorderhope . com
National Eating Disorders Association http :// www . nationaleatingdisorders . org
National Eating Disorder Information Centre http :// nedic . ca /
Charlaine Martin is a freelance writer , personal trainer , and blogger at Totally Fit 4 Life www . totallyfit4life . net . She lives in Michigan with her husband . She has three adult children and six active grandchildren .