I am convinced that most women experience an identity crisis at some point in their lives. Rather than loving themselves and appreciating the way God made them, some strive to conform to the images that society dictates.
From talk shows to sit-coms, soap operas to supermodels, we are constantly advised of what makes a woman “perfect.”
Most major companies use celebrity endorsements to market their products and services. By doing so, they attempt to capitalize on our emotions.
These companies know that the average consumer will purchase their products based on perception.
For example, some makeup companies use supermodels in their advertising campaigns to manipulate women to think, This makeup will make me look as good as she does!
The truth of the matter is that society markets image. It attempts to define what is beautiful, trendy and acceptable. Some women feel that if they don’t conform to what society decides is appropriate, they don’t fit in because they’re “out of style.”
As women of God, we must make a decision: Look and live like the world or conform to God’s ideal image of us. We can either follow the advice of today’s fashion consultants or live by the standards set forth in the Word of God. Our decision will determine whether or not we will experience success or failure in life.
It is vital that we begin to judge ourselves honestly. We must ask ourselves, Is my self-perception based on someone else’s opinion of me? Oftentimes, the opinions of others are contrary to God’s thoughts of us.
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Taffi Dollar is a celebrated author, teacher, and well-known conference speaker. Together with her husband, Creflo Dollar, she pastors more than 30,000 active members at World Changers Church International, World Changers Church-New York, as well as a host of fellowship churches throughout the U.S. and internationally.
She is the founder of the WCCI Women's Ministry and Prestige Ministry, both geared toward assisting and inspiring women. Through these ministries, she eloquently brings light to women's everyday struggles and gives heartfelt, life-improving advice.
Voted one of Atlanta's most influential women by the Atlanta Business League, her influence expands beyond ministry into music. She serves as the CEO of Arrow Records, a cutting-edge Christian recording label, and has been a guest panelist at numerous music festivals and workshops.
Taffi and her husband have five children and reside in Atlanta.