“Take care of that beautiful baby,” the TV judge said to the parents. For as many times as I’ve glanced at that show, I’ve heard that judge say those same words. And as I look at the baby, I always agree – the baby is beautiful. No makeup, no weave, no false eyelashes. Just pure, unadulterated beauty.
So, what does it mean to be naturally beautiful? Does it mean not wearing makeup or stylish clothes, and having your hair done the way your mother did hers? Does it mean that women who carry themselves that way are more in favor with God than others? The Bible has a lot to say about beauty. In the Old Testament, Esther, a young Jewish girl, became the wife of King Xerxes of Persia after completing “twelve months of beauty treatments prescribed for the women, six months with oil of myrrh and six with perfumes and cosmetics” (Esther 2 : 12). But Esther was not only beautiful on the outside. She was a woman of grace and wisdom who was willing to sacrifice her life for the sake of her people.
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised” (Proverbs 31: 30). “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). “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies” (Proverbs 31: 10).
If we examine the Bible’s summation of beauty, we would have to agree that beauty is not just “skin deep,” it is that irresistible quality that radiates from within. Something that is felt rather than seen, something that makes others want to get close to you and even emulate you. Something that cannot be found in jars or boxes. Something that reflects the beauty of God, your Creator.
To answer the question should a woman wear makeup and dress stylishly, I would say she should, if it’s done in good taste and would make her feel good about herself. She should also not neglect good nutrition, exercise and rest as these would contribute to what we define as natural beauty – healthy-looking skin and hair and a trim, well-toned body. That, together with the “unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit” mentioned above is what pleases Christ. Remember, we are His ambassadors, so we owe it to Him to look our best for Him.
