Inner Beauty, Outer Beauty
1 Peter 3:3-4 - Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.
Everywhere you look, you are faced with the world’s view of outer beauty. You see it when you turn on your television, or flip through your favorite magazine. Beauty is often shown as being tall and skinny, with perfect makeup, clothing, and jewelry. And it is often the perception that power, prestige, and worth come through your outer beauty.
Unlike the world, God tells us “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment…Instead it should be that of your inner self…” (1 Peter 3:3-4). Your outward beauty only lasts through this life here on Earth, yet the inner beauty through your faith in Jesus is shown through living a life pleasing to God, and this beauty will never fade away. This beauty was given to you through the Holy Spirit’s work in your heart and the faith he placed there through your Baptism. This inner beauty, unlike your outer beauty, will last for eternity!
In Romans 9:20-21 God says, “But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, 'Why did you make me like this?'" Who are we to stand in front of the mirror and criticize the way we are made? The potter, our Creator God, has made us to be just who and what we are - and that too is a precious gift. God isn't telling us that we can't make the most out of what he has blessed us with, but he does tell us to do it with modesty and to his glory. Remember the only type of beauty that lasts, is your inner beauty, shown through the life you live in and for your Savior.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: How can you let your inner beauty shine? What ways can you keep your inner beauty fresh? What are the “prettiest” parts of your inner beauty?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Thank God for your inner and outer beauty. Ask for help to let them shine. Ask for forgiveness for the times you have criticize your outer beauty.