What's the whole point of being pretty on the outside when you’re so ugly on the inside? ~Jess C. Scott
There's a new buzz phrase making its way around Christian circles--She's pretty, inside and out. Really, the sentiment is sweet -- even a compliment. Unfortunately, like so many comments, as they get used over and over the words lose their conviction and meaning.
I'm sure if you've been around young people for long, you have found that a beautiful face and cute figure is often window dressing. And the window is quite frankly smeared with finger prints, dirt and grime.
Young girls today are intelligent and intuitive. Not only do they know what's in their own hearts, they usually have observed what is happening in the hearts of their classmates and those they worship with. When we put our stamp of approval on ugly attitudes, arrogance, and unkindness, our own influence is lessened in their eyes.
You know I'm passionate about encouragement and believe that our young people should be given a consistent dose. But when we base our words on what we wish a young person would be, it takes away their desire to be like Jesus. It's like they are celebrated for unkindness, immodesty and selfishness.
I love young people. They need encouragement. But we are to be mentors, teaching and modeling the love of Jesus and the living of a consecrated, pure daughter of the King.
Let's focus on the inside and the outside will be beautiful.
7 comments:
I love when I am introduced to someone new and can just tell they are a Christian by the way they radiate Christ without speaking a word. When Jesus dwells within He shows up on the outside too :)
A great post. I so agree!!
I so agree!! This has been my constant goal: "Let's focus on the inside and the outside will be beautiful."
So true---but often hard to convince young people. It's way too easy to get sucked into the culture & forget what's real & right. Great post!
I love this, especially that quote by Audrey Hepburn at the top. Being beautiful isn't a fashion statement, but the way we choose to act and how we show respect to others and God. Thanks for a "beautiful" reminder.
Yes. And Amen.
Couldn't agree with you more! What a beautiful post. Blessings and sunshine, Valerie
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