TRUE BEAUTY
Memorise:
But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. .. 1 Peter 3:4
Read:
1 Peter 3:3-11
Message
It is good to pay attention to your physical appearance; however, this should not become an obsession. Many people have become so obsessed with their physical appearance that they spend lots of time and money on artificial hair, make-up, cosmetic surgery, and revealing clothes, thinking this will make them more attractive. This sort of obsession is not befitting of Christians. For example, applying heavy cosmetics and undergoing cosmetic surgery is a way of telling God that He has not created you the right way. Wearing tight and revealing clothes is also a way of saying that you're cheap and available. As a genuine Christian, your true beauty is not determined by your outward appearance but by the things that lie within you.
You should only give moderate time and attention to your looks. If a believer spends three hours dressing up every morning, I wonder if he or she has a quiet time with God at all. Colossians 3:2 says that your primary focus should be on things above, not things on the earth. Matthew 6:21 also says that where your treasure is, there will your heart be. If you are spending so much resources on your outward appearance, it shows where your heart actually is and what you are really focused on. Some Christians go as far as getting cosmetic surgery to enhance certain parts of their body. Some of them cannot sacrifice their comfort for the sake of the gospel, but they are willing to risk their lives to enhance their appearance.
It is good to look good, but please pay more attention to looking more beautiful on the inside than you are on the outside. What makes a person really beautiful is his or her character and good deeds. Dorcas was full of good works and generosity. She was vibrant in her relationship with God and fervent in her love for humanity. When she died, the people in her community refused to let her go. They sent for Peter to come and wake her up because her impact was truly powerful (Acts 9:36-42). If all she was known for were her face and body structure, nobody would have gone the extra mile to get Peter to wake her from the dead.
Beloved, when you live for God, your life will be truly beautiful, and long after you have crossed over to eternity, people will still be blessed by your impact. Focus on reflecting true beauty, not just your outward appearance.
Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 27-29
Hymn:
I Am Thine O Lord
Key Point:
True beauty is in being a person of excellent character, virtues, and impact.
I am Thine O Lord
Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord
To the cross where Thou hast died
Draiv me nearer, nearer,nearer, blessed Lord
To Thy precious, bleeding side