Beauty is the soul striving to make itself visible. -Thomas Clark Henley, "Beauty," 1851
It is easy to normalize beauty standards, but they have adverse effects, as evident in our negative self-talk. While society often promotes an unrealistic and unhealthy standard of beauty, we are called to pursue the beauty of being in a relationship with God.
Considering Jesus, an example of God's beauty standard, we will notice a few things immediately. First, we do not know the exact physical attributes of Jesus, his character drew people to him, and lastly, he had a heart aligned with the will of God.
When we understand God's beauty standards, we can relax the need to meet the world's definition of beauty and align with a benchmark that never changes.
So, let's review God's standard of beauty and keep them at the forefront of our minds.
Rooted in Love
It Is essential to understand that God's beauty standards are rooted in love. When God loves, he has already considered everything we are or will be. This love is freely given and has no contingencies. He will not stop loving us because we dyed our hair a particular color or have acne on our faces. Nor will he stop loving us because we refuse to participate in the latest trend. He is not more loving to what society would consider physically normal compared to the physically challenged. His standards are rooted in pure love. He wants us to be healthy and whole and to radiate His love to the world (Luke 10:27).
Nothing to do with the outside appearance
God's beauty standards have nothing to do with our outside appearance. Instead, God looks on the inside and determines if he is pleased. Natural beauty is great but is often subjective and changes with time. God is the creator and is aware that what He made is good. Therefore, we are, first and foremost, pleasing to God's eyes simply because He made us. It is vital to note that beauty standards are often learned over time, with many individuals unaware of when or how their standards were created. However, God is complete in all his ways and is not swayed by trends or the color of the year. Also, He does not judge based on what is heard or seen (Isaiah 11:1-3). Therefore, his beauty standard starts inside out.
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, 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” (1 Peter 3:3-4).
God's beauty standard is character-driven
Spirit-driven character is pleasing to God as it directly mirrors Him. Character permeates every action we take in life. Unfortunately, understanding this may be easier said than done, as many people are visual first. The way a person looks is the first thing we see; abstaining from accessing what we view would require turning our brains off. Fortunately for us, God is concerned with what drives our decisions. Displaying good characteristics is terrific, but it falls short when the intention does not align with things that please God. In short, we should aim to let the Holy Spirit refine our character.
God's beauty standard is heart-driven
This may seem like it is the same as having character, but it is uniquely separated. The Lord is searching within us to see our motives and if we will surrender ourselves to him. We can behave rightly and have an upstanding character without having a heart for God. King Amaziah in the Old Testament did what was right, but his heart was not with God (2 Chronicles 25:1-2). Transactional relationships are not as impactful as when hearts are knit together. A heart for God is captivating. It is not perfect, nor does it meet the beauty standards of any nation. However, God loves a heart that is His.
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart’” (1 Samuel 16:7).
God's beauty standard has long-term benefits
Meeting God's beauty standards has long-term benefits, contrasting with current beauty norms. Forgiveness, grace, and an eternal relationship with God should not be understated. Luckily, that is not the only long-term benefit. Since God's beauty standards never change, we do not have to worry about figuring out what will be acceptable next season or next year. Also, with standards that remain the same, it becomes easier to model those standards for the next generation. Thereby helping to ensure they accept the beauty within themselves. Contemplating God's standard of beauty encourages broader thoughts regarding beauty in general, hopefully piquing our curiosity to seek out the beauty within each other.
Let's plant a good word
Driven by a surrendered heart and moving with the characteristics of God sets us apart. Also, we become freed from imposing ever-changing beauty norms on ourselves and other people. Our worth is easily defined in him, and we can celebrate our unique beauty as His children. Know that your outward appearance never determined your beauty. There is nothing comparable to being beautiful in God's eyes. We can take comfort that our beauty is a forgone fact.
We'd love to hear your thoughts on the matter. Leave a comment below.
As always, You are incredible.
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