It seems like I am constantly being bombarded with ads for face creams and other miracle beauty treatments. The perfect cure for unwanted wrinkles, age spots, cellulite, you name it.
Sign me up!
The older I get, the more I realize that the deterioration of our outward appearance is inevitable. And the more I gain a deeper appreciation for the words from 1 Timothy 2:9-10:
“Women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness – with good works.”
Interesting that Paul directs these verses towards women. Why doesn’t he address the issue of modesty and vanity with men? Right before this in verse 8, Paul tells men to “pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling.” I guess they have their own problems to worry about.
It is somewhat crazy that the women in Ephesus in A.D. 60 were struggling with the very same issues we women do today. Putting an emphasis on outward appearance. Spending too much on clothes and jewelry. Seeking attention for the wrong things.
I don’t think this is an excuse to go around looking like a slob. Hygiene is important! And yes, we have jobs and obligations where we need to look presentable! But it is always good to consider the amount of time and money we spend on appearance compared with what we spend on our relationship with God and “good works” of obedience to Him. Are we in balance?
The Enduring Word commentary reminds us that “how you dress reflects your heart.” Where is our emphasis? Does our kindness outshine our attire? If we “profess godliness,” do we show it?
Matthew 5:16 says, “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father in heaven.” Our goal is not to bring glory in any way to ourselves. The ultimate goal is for our presence in every way to bring glory to GOD. (And this is a message that applies to men, too!)
With God, a bad hair day is okay, as long as our hearts are reflecting Him.
I love this reminder!!! From a girl with plenty of bad hair days….thank you! 🙂