Beautiful

It's natural for humans to notice and praise physical beauty, but this passage reminds us that there's more to true, spiritual beauty than just your outward appearance. In God's eyes, a gracious and righteous character are more important and lasting than good looks or fancy clothes. Beauty will inevitably fade--but a solid character remains a blessing throughout your entire life.  (Gospel.com)

Proverbs 31:30

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;

but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

So many times we get caught up in wanting to be beautiful.  Not just beautiful, but the total package.  Perfect skin, perfect hair, perfect body...we want it all.  We become so insecure about our outward appearance that our inner character suffers.  I know for a fact that when I start feeling down about my weight or my skin, I am not as nice to my family and friends as I should be.  I also become jealous of those around me who do have what seems to be a perfect exterior.  I take my frustrations out on anyone around me who will listen to my poor, pathetic self.

The truth is that in His eyes, we don't have to be perfect.  Our physical appearance is the least of His worries.  Does this mean we shouldn't take care of ourselves?  Of course not.  It means that if we are right with Christ on the inside, the outside will be easier to care for.  We must love ourselves for what we are and know that for a full Godly makeover, we must start from the inside. We are all beautiful to Him. 

I wanted to share a couple of pictures of my niece that my sister took the other day.  To me, they are beautiful.  Grace is 8 years old and she  has a beautiful spirit.  You cannot look at her and think otherwise.  She is outwardly beautiful to me, but she has a sweet heart and I just adore her.  I don't ever want her to grow up worrying about her outward appearance, even though I know she will.  I want her to stay as true to herself as she possibly can.  I want her to be innocent and beautiful from the inside out...and for her to always know that God loves her NO Matter WHAT!

If you are struggling to see your own beauty, know that God loves us for our inner beauty...and that if we reflect Him, our beauty will come out in ways we don't even understand. 

Have a Beautiful Day!
Amy