Beauty

The beautiful photos I found really got me thinking about beauty. We all know there is no true definition of beauty. We've all heard the phrase "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Amazing how something so hard to define can be used in a negative way. The culture we live in and the media driven messages are quick to pin point whats NOT beautiful. Our human eyes can only see the outward "beauty." God, the ultimate Beholder, has eyes that see beauty beyond our visual perspectives.

The Lord does not look at the things human beings look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
Samuel 16:7

I often catch myself observing beauty, but do not look at people's hearts as often as I should. Simply looking and making a judgment is easy, it takes no additional effort. Really observing and finding a person's beauty in their heart and soul takes much more effort. Every person has a story.

In Mark 8:34-37 Jesus says it is possible to gain the whole world and still be completely empty inside. Outer beauty will never satisfy. There will always be someone prettier, skinnier, richer, and more attractive.

What else does the Bible say about beauty?

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Proverbs 31:26

Set your minds on things above, not earthly things.
Colossians 3:2

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry and 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.
Peter 3:3-4

God isn't forbidding us in trying to look nice. We need to feel secure in our looks, but it's about balance. Your focus should not be on the outside and ignoring the heart. Your character and inward beauty should shine.

It's not easy, but in the end it's what really matters.