and conferences we do. Elissa and I started “Made To Shine” event this year. I love to share my heart and hear what other girls are going through.
What has been the most difficult part of this journey in your music and ministry?
Elissa: The biggest difficulty in our music career is when my voice gets sick and I can't sing. That's when my faith is put to the test and I get on the plane anyway to go to a performance. I have to rely on God fully. He comes through for me every time. Even though I have felt so weak in my voice at times, I have never missed one performance. That's God at work!
This issue is all about exploring and tackling the enormous topic of true beauty and self-image. So what's your story when it comes to beauty? Have you ever struggled with the girl in the mirror?
Becca: Yes. I grew up never liking my hair (I always thought it was frizzy and hard to manage!) and even struggled with acne. I could always pick out what I didn’t like about myself in photographs. And I don’t think I’m alone in this, because as girls, we often compare ourselves with others. We want what they have! I remember thinking, If I only had straight hair, I would be prettier. But if you have straight hair, you’d want curly hair, right? It’s a never-ending cycle. I discovered true beauty when I discovered God’s love for me. It became less about my outward appearance and more about what’s within. The treasure of our soul is that we are made in God’s image. We’re beautiful because the Author of beauty designed us uniquely. That doesn’t mean I don’t wake up some days and think I could do more to look better, or that I never struggle to compare myself with friends on Instagram. But I also have come a long way! I am confident in who God says I am, because I’m digging more into the Bible and living my life based on truth. It’s amazing how reading God’s Word can transform your thoughts! Try it.
What can we do to help out friends who might be dealing with eating disorders, or are feeling unloved or worthless?
Elissa: The most important thing to do for a friend who is struggling is to pray for them. God knows how to reach them even if you don't know. Sometimes all they really need is a good friend. Showing them the love of God in practical ways can be really healing, and it will help them see their value.
Becca: Love them. Don’t judge them for their own struggles (which is way too easy to do), but ask God to help you be a solid, authentic friend. One of my friends in high school had an eating disorder, and I regret not being a better friend. I honestly didn’t know what to say, but that kept me from letting God use me. If we simply step out and speak the truth in love, there is no limit to what God can do! Check out mercyministires.org for help with eating disorders.
Sometimes, when we look at the world and everything that's wrong with it, our hearts can feel a little hopeless. What can we possibly do to help? The world is so big and we're so small. Can one girl really make a difference? How can we combat the enemy's attack against girls, and be a force to be reckoned with?
Becca: I heard about a girl, Malala from Pakistan, who recently spent her 16th birthday speaking to the world’s most powerful leaders at the United Nations! The Taliban shot her on her way to school, simply for being a girl who was educated. Now that she has recovered, Malala is using her platform to promote equality, education and peace. This girl amazes me. Yep, one girl can make a difference! One girl can have an audience of world powers and be heard. How much greater is our potential when Jesus is speaking through us, and when we are on a mission for Him. We are made to shine, not for our own fame or popularity, but for a much bigger purpose.
What is your favorite song that you've written, recorded or performed?
Elissa: “Little Lies” is a favorite song right now. It's on our new project that released in September this year. The lyrics unveil the struggle that we all face. We encounter lies in the world and from the enemy, and these lies have the ability to tear us down if we let them. But God's truth prevails, and He brings freedom when we agree with the truth. This is what I love talking about and singing about.
Would you consider yourselves very fashion-forward and trend-conscience, or do you just wear whatever you like without giving a second thought to trends and fads?
Becca: For me, it’s important not to follow trends for the sake of following them. I have to actually like it. I’m conscious of the message I send with what I wear, so I am picky when I shop. And there’s part of me that likes the classic look, that isn’t so cutting edge. Some of those trends will be gone fast. When I buy something I want to like it for a while.
What are your favorite stores?
Elissa: I love H&M when I can find one nearby. Also, Love Culture and Forever 21.
Becca: I like H&M, Forever 21 and the Buckle (when there’s a sale )
If you were Disney Princesses, which ones would you be and why?
Elissa: Sleeping Beauty, because I love my sleep!
Becca: Pocahontas, because she was real! But I always loved Cinderella growing up.