Beauty, Jesus-style
In the 16th Century, some women copied Queen Elizabeth's pale complexion by applying something called 'ceruse'. Unfortunately this stuff contained white lead and whilst they may have achieved the skin tone of a royal, they'd soon end up with hair loss and skin damage (and quite possibly death).
Why the history lesson? Beauty is a weird thing. Whether it's haircuts, clothes, jewellery or white lead, we're constantly updating what's seen as beautiful. We hear the whole 'beauty is on the inside' spiel, but here's a radical thought... what if true beauty is only found in Jesus? What if the beauty inside of us is only there as a result of the transforming power of Jesus? We're not perfect, but when we chase after the things of God we allow him to reveal more of his beauty to those around us.
In 1 Samuel 16:7 NIV it says, 'The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.' What a heart-stopping, amazing realisation. God is looking for beauty in our everyday actions and thoughts. Will he find it?
So what now? Ever tempted to think of yourself (or others) as ugly? Write down today's verse: 'Keep your eyes on the Lord! You will shine like the sun' (Psalm 34:5 CEV). Stick it on your mirror as a reminder that you are filled with a beauty beyond comprehension. And that you should look beyond skin-deep when it comes to others too.
— SCRIPTURE —
'Keep your eyes on the Lord! You will shine like the sun.' Psalm 34:5 CEV
— SOULFOOD —
Rev 5-9, Luke 17:20-37, Ps 115, Pro 8:1-3
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