Turn Their Hearts!
December 28, 2006
Let’s continue on with our fascinating journey with Peter:
God’s fingers can touch nothing but to mold it into loveliness – George MacDonald
1 Peter 3:3-4 (New International Version)
Your 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.
What is adornment? It refers to what a woman uses to make herself attractive to others. Who are we actually trying to attract. Women usually are dressing to impress – not men—but other women. Interesting! The societal pressures upon women are immense. The focus on physical beauty so completely permeates our culture; I believe we are incapable of escaping some degree of compliance. LD
Peter is teaching Christian women not to relying on their outward beauty coming from outward adornments. Not that woman can’t style their hair or wear jewelry or nice clothes. He is contrasting beautiful “things” on the outside to adornment (focus of their beauty) be the inner self. The inner nature and personality, the attitudes, thoughts, and motivations that are revealed in words and actions. For believers, the Holy Spirit has transformed inner self.
Make your Statement:
Should Christians, as an act of obedience, refuse to use deodorant (body odor is natural, after all) or lipstick (lips have a natural tint, you know) or hair spray (let wind do its natural work)? Should Christians make efforts to look plain?
Peter does not get specific, but the Bible everywhere counsels moderation, dignity and propriety. Always, Inner beauty of the soul provides the true measure of a person’s charm and grace.
So be a “Number 10” in gentleness, generosity, wit, wisdom, and compassion. Don’t worry if models in TV ads turn more heads.
You turn their hearts! – Life Application Bible Commentary