Church bulletin
I hate going to the shops, especially when I need to do buy clothes. It’s normally a drawn-out affair in which the moaning of the children is second only to mine. The last occasion was a bit different – cargo pants, shorts, two shirts, and two polo shirts all done and dusted in an hour. What are some Biblical principles which should shape our thinking about appearance? Here are a few thoughts:
A. Appearance is not unimportant. The way we present ourselves says something about us. The virtuous woman of Proverbs 31 dressed herself and her children appropriately and smartly. Vv21-22, “She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household is clothed with scarlet. 22 She makes tapestry for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.”
When Samuel went looking to anoint Israel’s next king God said, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For£ the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” In this instance Samuel was to ignore the appearance, the point being people do take note. We would be shocked if one of our politicians fronted the national press gallery in a tank top, board shorts and thongs.
B. Appearance should not become too important. Some people are obsessive about their appearance. This is expressed in a number of ways – the time they spend whether in front of the mirror or at the shops; the amount of money they spend; the quantity of clothing they own; the status they place upon it. 1 Peter 3:3-4, “Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—4rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.” Peter doesn’t say (in this case for women) that it is sinful to be well presented, but rather the character is more important.
C. All things should be done to the glory of God (1 Cor 10:13). Each one must decide what it means to glorify God in appearance. This includes the time and money devoted to it, the particular occasion, the cultural standards, how much time and effort comparatively are given to spiritual pursuits. There are obvious issues related to modesty, jewellery and make-up – not that wearing jewellery or make-up is sinful, but in everything we need to be guided by a desire to glorify God.