July 26, 2018 – I Peter 3:3-4

Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. I Peter 3:3-4.

Our true beauty is not what we do to our outward body.  It is our heart and our mind that make women beautiful, no matter the age or how wrinkled the skin.  God chose us to be holy, and Jesus chooses us out of His great love and sacrifice.  

What erases this beauty and love in our hearts?  It is a haughty spirit and complaining heart.  Mark 7:20-21 – And then he added, “It is what comes from inside that defiles you. For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts…“  These are the words of Jesus and He continues with a listing of sins.

Colossians 3:12-14 –  Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.   

Instead of the final spritz of scent or hair spray or another bit of jewelry, consider verse 15 – And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. 

Is this only for ladies?  I Corinthians 11:11 reminds us – But among the Lord’s people, women are not independent of men, and men are not independent of women.  We all come from God.

This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful. They put their trust in God and accepted the authority of their husbands. I Peter 3:5.