What makes a woman beautiful? Is it her smooth skin, bright eyes, and silky hair that make her attractive to others? Or is it her inner kindness, sweet spirit, and strength that makes others want to know her? We may say that inner beauty is more important than outward beauty but do we really believe that?
The answer is found in the world in which we live. We are bombarded with perfect models that exude external beauty. TV and magazines are constantly telling us that outward beauty is what people love. And we do love it. Not only do we love it, but we desire it, too. Evidence shows that women spend millions of dollars a year on diet supplements, getting botox, having their teeth whitened, and body parts liposuction, tucked and lifted. I can’t say that these things don’t turn my head as well.
Beauty is something we all long for—even Christians. That’s because it’s a God-given desire. Yet, because we live in a broken world, we seek the good things of God in unhealthy ways. That’s why we need to know the truth so we can be set free from the bondage of grasping after something that doesn’t exists. There is no magical treatment or surgery that is going to keep our outward beauty from fading. To believe otherwise will only keep us from finding the true beauty we seek and that lies within. 1 Peter 3: 3-4 tells us, “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.”
According to Dr. Elliot Feit, any woman can be beautiful. “The key ingredient is godliness, which expresses itself in her being selfless, a good listener, kind, and caring. For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.”
Understanding the profound truth will transform any person from the inside out. Your beauty will radiate as you care for your family, volunteer at school, and sever in your church. In fact, don’t be surprised if you become the most beautiful woman in your community, because now you know. The best-kept beauty secrets lie within a gentle heart, a quiet spirit, and love for God and others.
Micca